Coon Rapids, MN Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Section 12-513 requires residential swimming pools to be completely enclosed by a non-climbing type barrier and gate. The barrier's top must sit at least 48 inches above grade, measured on the side facing away from the pool, and the maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barrier is two inches; where the pool structure itself sits above grade, that clearance can grow to four inches if the barrier is mounted on top of the structure. Openings in the barrier cannot allow passage of a four-inch diameter sphere, and where horizontal and vertical members sit less than 45 inches apart at the top, the horizontal members must face the pool side and vertical spacing cannot exceed 1.75 inches; where horizontal members sit 45 inches or more apart, vertical spacing can go up to four inches.

Chain link fencing is capped at a 2.25-inch square mesh unless slats reduce the opening to 1.75 inches. Section 12-513(1)(g) requires access gates to accommodate a locking device, with pedestrian gates opening outward away from the pool and being self-closing with a self-latching device; non-pedestrian gates need only the self-latching device. Where a dwelling wall forms part of the barrier, Section 12-513(1)(h) requires either a door alarm that sounds for at least 30 seconds when a pool-access door opens, a power safety cover meeting ASTM F 1346-91, or another approved method offering equal protection.

Section 12-514 exempts a spa or hot tub with an ASTM F 1346 safety cover from the barrier requirement entirely, and Section 12-812 extends the same barrier and fence standards to landscape ponds.