Pool barrier requirements in Alexandria are set primarily by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63), which adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). Residential pools deeper than 24 inches require a barrier at least 48 inches high, with self-closing and self-latching gates. Local fencing ordinances are authorized by Virginia Code Β§15.2-921.
Pool safety barrier rules in Alexandria operate under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC), 13VAC5-63, which incorporates the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) Section 305. Alexandria does not deviate from VUSBC pool barrier minimums, since Virginia's building code is mandatory statewide and locally adopted versions cannot be more or less stringent. Under ISPSC Β§305, residential pools and spas with water deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the finished grade on the side facing away from the pool. Maximum clearance under the barrier is 2 inches when measured on a solid surface and 4 inches when measured on grass or grade. Vertical openings cannot pass a 4-inch sphere. Gates serving the pool area must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing, and be self-latching, with the latch release mechanism positioned at least 54 inches above grade where the gate is less than 60 inches tall. Virginia Code Β§15.2-921 expressly authorizes localities, including independent cities like Alexandria, to adopt ordinances requiring fences around private swimming pools. Pool construction permits are issued through Alexandria Code Administration (703.746.4200), which inspects barriers prior to issuing the certificate of occupancy or final approval.
Construction without a permit, non-compliant barriers, or non-functional self-closing/self-latching gates can require corrective work prior to final inspection and may result in stop-work orders. Unsafe pools may also be enforced by Code Administration as building code violations under VUSBC Β§13VAC5-63.
Alexandria City, VA
Alexandria prohibits unreasonably loud noise in public places between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. under City Code Sec. 11-5-4(b)(4). Sound-reproducing equipment...
Alexandria City, VA
Alexandria's Zoning Ordinance Section 6-403 (General Regulations and Exceptions) governs fences in residential zones. Most rear-yard fences are limited to 6 ...
Alexandria City, VA
Alexandria City Code Sec. 5-7-35 requires dogs on public property to be under physical restraint by a leash held by a person capable of controlling the dog. ...
Alexandria City, VA
Alexandria bans the possession, sale, storage, and use of all consumer fireworks within city limits, including sparklers and novelty items that may be legal ...
Alexandria City, VA
Alexandria Ordinance No. 5575 requires 0.75 parking spaces per bedroom outside Enhanced Transit Areas and 0.25 per bedroom inside ETAs. Fractions of 0.5 or m...
Alexandria City, VA
Alexandria Ordinance No. 5575 (effective September 1, 2025) caps STR occupancy at a maximum of six guests per rental unit, with no more than two guests per b...
See how Alexandria City's fencing requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.