Above-ground pools over 18-24 inches deep still need a compliant barrier. If the pool wall itself serves as the barrier, the access ladder or steps must be removable, lockable, or surrounded by a compliant fence.
Under the county-adopted building code, an above-ground pool that holds enough water is treated like any pool for barrier purposes. Where the pool structure is used as the barrier and access is by a ladder or steps, the ladder/steps must be capable of being secured, locked or removed to prevent access; or the ladder/steps must be surrounded by a barrier meeting the standard requirements, and any opening created must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. A building permit is still required to install an above-ground pool.
An unsecured ladder or missing barrier fails inspection and prevents final approval; unpermitted installation draws Public Works enforcement.
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