Des Plaines requires that all swimming pools holding water more than 24 inches deep be enclosed by a barrier at least 4 feet high (often 5 feet under City code), with self-closing and self-latching gates opening outward. Requirements follow the International Residential Code Appendix G and Illinois Department of Public Health pool barrier rules.
The Des Plaines Building Code adopts International Residential Code Appendix G for residential swimming pool barriers. A barrier at least 4 feet high (Des Plaines and Illinois Department of Public Health rules often require 5 feet) must completely enclose the pool. Vertical openings in the barrier may not exceed 4 inches. Where horizontal members are spaced less than 45 inches apart, they must be on the pool side of the fence. Gates must open outward, away from the pool, and be equipped with self-closing and self-latching hardware with the latch located on the pool side at least 54 inches above grade. Where a residence forms part of the barrier, doors leading to the pool area must be alarmed or the pool must have a powered safety cover meeting ASTM F1346. Above-ground pools with side walls at least 48 inches high may use a removable or lockable ladder as the barrier where the IRC permits. Hot tubs and spas with a locked, lockable, or compliant safety cover are exempt from the perimeter fence requirement.
Operating a pool without compliant fencing may result in immediate enforcement action by Des Plaines Code Enforcement at (847) 391-5300, including an order to drain the pool until the barrier is corrected. Fines typically begin at $100 per day and escalate.
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