Clarke County, GA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Athens-Clarke County has formally adopted the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code with Georgia Amendments as the locally enforced pool and spa code, effective January 1, 2026, along with the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) and 2024 International Building Code (IBC) with Georgia Amendments. Under the ISPSC and IRC Appendix G, a residential pool with water more than 24 inches deep must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches in height measured from the outside finished ground surface. The barrier must have no openings, handholds, or footholds that would allow a child to climb over, under, or through it; horizontal members on the pool side must be at least 45 inches apart, and vertical-member spacing must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere (1-3/4 inches where horizontal members are less than 45 inches apart). All gates serving as part of the barrier must be self-closing and self-latching, open outward away from the pool, and have the latch release at least 54 inches above the ground. Where a wall of the dwelling forms part of the barrier, doors with direct access to the pool must be equipped with an approved alarm or other safety device meeting code. Athens-Clarke County's locally adopted code list specifically notes that pool barriers are NOT exempt from the building-permit requirement, meaning a permit through the Building Inspections Department is required for the barrier even if it is under 7 feet tall. Spas and hot tubs with locking safety covers complying with ASTM F1346 may meet the barrier requirement under code. The Building Inspections Department (706-613-3640) reviews and inspects pool barriers as part of pool permit closeout.