Citrus Heights, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

California's Swimming Pool Safety Act (H&S Code §115920-115929) is the controlling law, and Citrus Heights enforces it through the Building Division at permit final inspection. A qualifying pool barrier must be at least 60 inches high, have no more than 2 inches of clearance at the bottom, have no openings greater than 4 inches, and have no climbable features on the exterior (horizontal members spaced less than 45 inches apart must be on the pool side). Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, with the latch at least 54 inches above grade.

For pools built or remodeled after January 1, 2007, the owner must also install at least 2 of 7 approved safety features: isolation barrier, safety pool cover, exit alarms on doors leading to pool, self-closing/self-latching doors, removable mesh fencing, pool alarm, or other approved means. Real estate transfer triggers a safety disclosure requirement. Above-ground pools over 18 inches deep also require barriers. Violations are treated as building code violations with substantial fines.