Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Public Pool Barrier and Fencing Standards Statewide

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Washington WAC 246-260 enforced under RCW 70.90 requires public swimming pools, including those at apartments, hotels, and HOAs, to maintain barriers at least four feet high with self-closing self-latching gates statewide.

Key Facts

Authority: WAC 246-260-031
Minimum Height: 48 inches
Gate Latch: 54 inches above ground
Max Opening: 4 inches

Source: WAC 246-260-031 - Pool barrier and design standards

Full Breakdown

RCW 70.90.120 directs the Department of Health to adopt rules for water recreation facility safety. WAC 246-260-031 requires enclosures at least 48 inches high surrounding all public pools, with openings no greater than four inches and self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward. Latches must be at least 54 inches above the ground. The rules apply to any pool used by the public including condominium, apartment, hotel, motel, club, and school pools. Local health jurisdictions enforce the code uniformly.

Violations & Penalties

Operating a public pool without compliant barriers can result in closure orders under RCW 70.90.130 and civil penalties up to $1,000 per day per violation imposed by local health officers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Washington require fencing around private backyard pools?

State law WAC 246-260 covers public pools only. Residential pool barriers are governed by the Washington State Building Code and local ordinances, typically requiring 48-inch barriers on new installations.

Do apartment and HOA pools count as public pools?

Yes. WAC 246-260-010 defines public pools to include apartment, condominium, HOA, hotel, and club pools, all subject to the statewide 48-inch barrier and self-latching gate requirements.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Washington require fencing around private backyard pools?

Do apartment and HOA pools count as public pools?

Yes. WAC 246-260-010 defines public pools to include apartment, condominium, HOA, hotel, and club pools, all subject to the statewide 48-inch barrier and self-latching gate requirements.