Galveston County, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum height
- 48 inches from outside grade
- Applies to
- Pools over 18 inches deep
- Chain-link
- Banned on new enclosures (post-1994)
- Authority
- State law, not county
- Gap limit
- 4-inch / 1-3/4-inch sphere rule
Summary
State law, not the county, sets pool-fence rules. Texas Health & Safety Code 757.003 requires a pool-yard enclosure at least 48 inches high measured from the ground on the side away from the pool, and bans chain-link on new enclosures.
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. 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
Galveston County cannot zone, so there is no county fence ordinance. Instead the statewide pool-yard enclosure law in Health & Safety Code Chapter 757 governs every pool over 18 inches deep, in cities and unincorporated areas alike. The enclosure must be at least 48 inches tall as measured from the outside grade, with gaps sized so a small child cannot squeeze through (openings limited to a 4-inch sphere for widely spaced members, or 1-3/4 inches for closely spaced members). Chain-link fencing is prohibited for any new pool-yard enclosure built after January 1, 1994. Cities such as Galveston or League City may add stricter fence provisions in their own codes.
Violations & Fines
The enclosure law is enforced through civil liability and city code enforcement; a non-compliant fence can also void insurance coverage and create attractive-nuisance liability after an incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall must a pool fence be in Galveston County?
Can I use chain-link for my pool fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Galveston County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Galveston County to another location·View the Texas swimming pools & spas overview
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