Vermont Statewide Pool Barrier Building Code Rules

Vermont's Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety, adopts and enforces the Vermont Fire and Building Safety Code under 20 V.S.A. chapter 173, incorporating provisions from the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and ICC family. Pools deeper than 24 inches generally require an enclosing barrier at least 48 inches high, self-closing and self-latching gates opening outward, and approved entrapment-prevention drain covers. Public pools require additional permits, lifeguards or signage, and inspection. While towns may add zoning rules for fence placement, the safety barrier requirements are set at the state level and supersede less-protective local standards.

Fire Safety can issue correction orders, civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation under 20 V.S.A. § 2734, and stop-use orders for non-compliant pools.