Bergenfield, NJ Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Bergenfield's swimming pool ordinance, Chapter 277, requires anyone who builds, installs or maintains a permanent or stationary swimming, bathing or wading pool to first obtain a permit from the Borough Inspector under § 277-4. The application must include plans, a plot plan showing setbacks, and a description of the fence proposed to surround the pool, which must meet the § 277-7D standard. Under § 277-7D, any pool with a water depth of 18 inches below grade, or an above-ground pool with walls 30 inches or higher, must be completely enclosed within 30 days by a fence or wall at least four feet high, with no gaps or openings larger than two inches (four inches for picket fencing).

Every gate must carry a self-closing, self-latching device that keeps it securely shut, and a house or accessory building may serve as part of the enclosure. The Borough treats a fully fenced property with a gate as sufficient compliance. 50 per $500 of estimated construction cost under § 277-6, collected by the Borough Inspector alongside separate Board of Health sanitary permits. An applicant denied a permit may appeal to the Borough Council under § 277-8, though a sanitation-related variance also needs a Board of Health recommendation.

Violators face a fine up to $100 per § 277-9, with default punishable by up to 30 days in the county jail, and each day of noncompliance counts as a separate offense.