St. Charles County, MO Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum barrier height
- 48 inches
- Triggers at pool depth
- over 24 inches
- Gates
- self-closing, self-latching
- Cover exemption
- ASTM F1346 power cover
- First-offense fine cap
- $200 plus costs
Summary
St. Charles County requires any private pool, hot tub, or spa deeper than 24 inches to be fully enclosed by a self-closing, self-latching fence or barrier at least 48 inches tall under the county's Property Maintenance Code.
Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than twenty-four (24) inches (610 mm) in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier not less than forty-eight inches (1,219 mm) in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be self-closing and self-latching.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4863880; v61 updated 2026-05-11; through 05-11-2026).
Full Breakdown
Under Section 303.2 of the county's Property Maintenance Code (adopted at County Code § 500.500), a private swimming pool, hot tub, or spa holding more than 24 inches of water must be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches high, measured from the ground on the side away from the pool. Gates must self-close and self-latch, with the release mechanism at least 54 inches up the gate or, if lower, positioned on the pool side. An existing pool enclosure can't be removed, replaced, or altered in a way that reduces its effectiveness as a safety barrier. Spas and pools fitted with an ASTM F1346-compliant power safety cover are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Enforced by the County Division of Building and Code Enforcement under Property Maintenance Code § 109.4; violations are misdemeanors, with court fines (combined with costs) capped at $200 for a first offense in 12 months, rising for repeat violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a St. Charles County pool always need a fence?
How high must the pool fence be?
Can I remove an old pool fence to put in a new one?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in St. Charles County
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