Under the North Carolina Residential Code adopted in Durham, outdoor pools over 24 inches deep must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high, with no openings large enough to pass a 4-inch sphere.
Durham enforces the North Carolina Residential Code (Appendix NC-A/Appendix G) for private residential pool barriers. Any pool capable of containing water more than 24 inches deep must be surrounded by a barrier. The barrier's top must be at least 48 inches above grade, measured on the side facing away from the pool, and the gap at the bottom is limited to 2 inches (or 4 inches over a solid surface). Openings in the fence must not allow a 4-inch-diameter sphere to pass, preventing small children from squeezing through. Barrier plans and dimensions are reviewed at permitting.
Plans lacking required Appendix G barrier dimensions are disapproved; no Certificate of Compliance issues, and unauthorized pool use may bring fines.
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