Evanston requires a minimum 48-inch (4-foot) high barrier around all residential swimming pools, including above-ground pools. Fencing must have self-closing, self-latching gates with latches at least 54 inches above grade. The city follows the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code barrier standards. Pool barriers must be in place before the pool is filled with water.
Evanston's pool barrier requirements follow the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and the International Residential Code (IRC) as adopted locally. All outdoor residential pools (in-ground and above-ground) must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the exterior side. The barrier must not have openings, handholds, or footholds that could allow a child to climb it. Fence openings must not exceed 4 inches (to prevent a small child from passing through). Chain-link fencing must have openings no larger than 1.75 inches. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Gate latches must be on the pool side of the gate and at least 54 inches above the ground or grade surface. If the release mechanism is less than 54 inches high, it must be located at least 3 inches below the top of the gate on the pool side and the gate must have no opening greater than 0.5 inches within 18 inches of the latch. For above-ground pools, the pool wall may serve as part of the barrier if it is at least 48 inches high, but access ladders must have a lockable barrier or be removable when the pool is not in use. Pool covers alone do not satisfy the barrier requirement. The barrier must be in place and inspected before the pool may be filled. Existing pools that do not meet current barrier standards may be required to upgrade fencing if the city becomes aware of non-compliance.
Operating a pool without a compliant barrier is a serious safety violation. Fines range from $100 to $500 per day until a compliant barrier is installed. The city may order the pool drained or covered until fencing is installed. In extreme cases of imminent danger, the city may seek an emergency court order. Pool owners may also face civil liability if an unsecured pool is involved in a drowning or injury incident.
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