Bishop, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum fence height
- 60 inches
- Max sphere through gaps
- 4 inches
- Max ground clearance
- 2 inches
- Gate
- Self-closing, self-latching
- Latch release height
- At least 60 inches
Summary
If your Bishop pool barrier is an enclosure, California law requires a fence at least 60 inches high, gaps no wider than 4 inches, no more than 2 inches under the fence, and a self-closing, self-latching gate that swings away from the pool.
An enclosure shall have a minimum height of 60 inches. The maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure shall be two inches. Gaps or voids shall not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four inches in diameter. Gates shall be self-closing with a self-latching device.
Full Breakdown
Under the California Swimming Pool Safety Act, the enclosure option (one of the required safety features) must meet Health & Safety Code 115923. The barrier must have a minimum height of 60 inches, no gaps or voids allowing passage of a 4-inch sphere, a maximum clearance of 2 inches between the ground and the bottom of the barrier, and no handholds or footholds a child under five could use to climb it. Gates must be self-closing with a self-latching device placed at least 60 inches above the ground. Bishop's Building Division enforces these state standards at plan check.
Violations & Fines
A pool that fails the barrier requirements will not pass final building inspection. Non-compliant enclosures must be corrected before the pool is approved for use; ongoing hazards can draw code-enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 5-foot pool fence tall enough in Bishop?
Does the gate have to lock?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bishop
California rules heatmap·Compare Bishop to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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