Rhode Island Pool Barrier Code Through State Building Code

Under R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-27.3 (State Building Code), Rhode Island enforces a statewide building code adopted by the State Building Code Standards Committee. The code incorporates the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and applicable provisions of the International Residential Code. Pool barriers must be at least 48 inches high, with self-closing and self-latching gates opening outward. Above-ground pools may use removable ladders. Entrapment protection drain covers comply with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act. Municipalities enforce locally but cannot weaken the state code; SBC-005 governs residential pool construction.

Building code violations result in stop-work orders, fines of up to $500 per day under § 23-27.3-124.0, mandatory corrections, and potential injunctive relief and certificate denials.