Amarillo, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum barrier height
- 48 inches (exterior side)
- Max gap at base
- 4 inches
- Gate requirement
- Self-closing, self-latching, outward-opening
- Permit required
- Yes. Building Safety Dept.
Summary
Amarillo requires a building permit for any swimming pool barrier or enclosure, whether residential or commercial. The barrier must meet Texas Health & Safety Code Ch. 757 minimums, at least 48 inches tall with self-closing, self-latching gates, and comply with local building codes.
Sec. 757.003. ENCLOSURE FOR POOL YARD. (a) Except as otherwise provided by Section 757.005, the owner of a multiunit rental complex with a pool or a property owners association that owns, controls, or maintains a pool shall completely enclose the pool yard with a pool yard enclosure.(b) The height of the pool yard enclosure must be at least 48 inches as measured from the ground on the side away from the pool.(c) Openings under the pool yard enclosure may not allow a sphere four inches in diameter to pass under the pool yard enclosure. ... (f) The use of chain link fencing materials is prohibited entirely for a new pool yard enclosure that is constructed after January 1, 1994.
Full Breakdown
Per the City of Amarillo Building Safety Department and Chapter 4-1 (Fences, Pens, Corrals and Related Enclosures) read in conjunction with Chapter 4-3 (General Building and Construction Standards), a permit is required to construct or alter a mandatory barrier or enclosure for any swimming pool or spa. The barrier must stand at least 48 inches measured from the exterior ground level, have no gaps allowing a 4-inch sphere to pass through, and include self-closing/self-latching gates that open outward. Gate latches must be located in the upper quarter of the gate on the pool side. Texas Health & Safety Code §757.003 sets the baseline state standard.
Violations & Fines
Construction without a permit is a code violation subject to stop-work orders, fines up to $500 per day, and required removal or remediation of non-compliant structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to install a pool fence around an existing pool?
What happens if my pool fence is only 42 inches tall?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Amarillo
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