Bishop, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Under Inyo County Zoning Ordinance Title 18 (Chapter 18.78, General Regulations), a protective fence enclosing a swimming pool is not subject to the County's ordinary fence height limitations if it is constructed of wire or steel mesh capable of transmitting at least ninety percent light. This zoning provision governs the height and visual character of the barrier. The substantive child-safety barrier standards for new pools come from California state law, which Inyo County enforces through the building permit. When a building permit is issued for a new pool or spa at a private single-family home, the Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health and Safety Code §115922) requires the pool to be equipped with at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention features. The most common is an enclosure that isolates the pool from the home, with a minimum height of 60 inches, no gaps that would allow a 4-inch sphere to pass, and self-closing, self-latching gates with the release mechanism placed at least 60 inches above the ground. The building official must inspect and approve these features before final approval. Always verify current standards with County Building and Safety.