Pennsylvania Statewide Pool Barrier Requirements Under UCC

Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code (UCC), Act 45 of 1999 codified at 35 P.S. 7210.101 et seq., applies statewide and adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as part of 34 Pa. Code Chapter 403. Residential pools deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high, measured from the outside, with no openings exceeding 4 inches and self-closing, self-latching gates that swing away from the pool. Latches must be at least 54 inches above the ground. Municipalities must enforce these standards and cannot adopt weaker rules; stricter rules require Department of Labor and Industry approval.

Pennsylvania UCC violations are misdemeanors under 35 P.S. 7210.903 with fines up to $1,000 per offense and stop-work orders. Each day of continued violation may constitute a separate offense; insurance liability and civil claims may also follow drowning incidents.