Elyria, OH Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Section 1395.05(a) governs every pool built after the rule took effect except semi-permanent above ground pools. The fence must be not less than 48 inches high and be either chain link with mesh openings of not more than two inches knuckled at both top and bottom, or another suitable type and material approved by the Chief Building Official in substantial compliance with the pool safety principles of the Building Official Code Administrator International Code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch on the inside of the gate and not readily available for children to open. A fence enclosing the yard as a whole, of the same type, counts as compliance. All gates must be locked when the residents are away from the house or when the pool is not in use. A portable plastic or vinyl pool two feet or under in height needs a protective plastic cover that is properly secured when not in use.

Above ground pools follow subsections (b) and (c). They are enclosed by a fence, or by a built-in fence and a barricade to the means of access, built in a manner acceptable to the Building Inspector. An above ground pool 48 inches or more in height needs no separate fence if the pool structure itself serves as the barrier, or if a barrier is mounted on top of the pool and the ladder or steps can be secured, locked or removed, or are surrounded by a barrier meeting the fence rules.

Timing and enforcement matter as well. Section 1395.06(n) requires the fence to be installed before the pool is filled with water unless the Building Inspector approves other means of protection for a specified, temporary period. Under Section 1395.08, an older pool that did not conform had to comply by January 1, 1973, and a pool already in operation can keep its present fence if the Building Inspector finds it adequate. The pool permit application must show the fence type, height and location and the number of gates under Section 1395.03.