New Jersey Swimming Pool Barrier Requirements Statewide

The NJ UCC adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and IRC Appendix G through N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14A and 5:23-3.21. Any pool, hot tub, or spa capable of holding water more than 24 inches deep requires a barrier at least 48 inches high, with self-closing self-latching gates opening outward, with no openings allowing passage of a 4-inch sphere, and with door alarms on any house wall serving as part of the barrier. These rules apply uniformly to every municipality; local fence ordinances must yield where they conflict with pool barrier specifications.

Failure to install or maintain a compliant barrier results in UCC notices of violation, fines up to $2,000 per violation, denial of certificate of approval, and potential civil liability for drowning incidents.