North Dakota Pool Barrier and Fencing Code Standards

The state-adopted IRC Appendix G mandates that residential swimming pools containing water more than 24 inches deep have a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the outside. Vertical fence members must be spaced no more than 4 inches apart, and openings under the barrier cannot exceed 2 inches. Gates must open outward away from the pool and be self-closing and self-latching, with latches at least 54 inches above the ground. Where a dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier, doors leading to the pool area require alarms or self-closing devices. Above-ground pools may use removable ladders as part of the barrier system.

Noncompliant barriers may result in stop-work orders, denied certificates of occupancy, and civil liability if drowning occurs.