East Brunswick, NJ Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Section 195-12 of the East Brunswick Township Code, part of Chapter 195, Swimming Pools, Private, sets the barrier rules. Subsection A requires a fence or wall of substantial construction not less than four feet in height, with no openings larger than three inches except for gates or doors. It must be built to prevent any person from gaining access to the pool beneath or over it. Under subsection B, a dwelling or accessory building can serve as part of the enclosure.

Subsection C covers gates and doors. Every fence or wall needs one or more gates or doors of the same height as the fence or wall, equipped with a self-closing or self-latching device capable of keeping them securely closed. Gates or doors must be locked when the pool is not in use. Subsection D deals with wading pools that have no fence or wall: they must be either emptied or covered with a suitable strong protective covering fastened securely in place when not in use.

Subsection E carves out two exceptions. Above-ground pools forty-eight inches or more in height are not subject to the section, provided that all steps, ladders or other means of access are removed when the pool is not in use. The section also does not apply where the entire premises on which the pool is located are surrounded by a fence that meets the section's requirements.

The fence is part of the permit review. Under § 195-4, the application must describe the fence or other enclosure, including type, height and the number and location of gates or doors, and the Division of Construction Inspection and the Chief Construction Official review that description before a permit issues. Section 195-14 adds that the owner must keep the pool in good repair and abate any hazard after notice from the Health Officer or the Code Enforcement Officer.