Horry County, SC Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum height
- 48 inches above grade
- Openings
- No 4-inch sphere passes
- Gap on grass
- 2 inches maximum
- Gap on concrete
- 4 inches maximum
- Clear zone
- 36 inches from climbables
Summary
Outdoor pools must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the outside. Openings cannot pass a 4-inch sphere, and ground clearance is capped at 2 inches on grass, 4 inches on solid surfaces.
The top of the barrier shall be not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade where measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool or spa. ... Openings in the barrier shall not allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere.
Full Breakdown
Horry County adopted the 2021 ISPSC, so every outdoor residential pool must be surrounded by a compliant barrier. Section 305.2.1 sets a minimum 48-inch height around the entire perimeter. Vertical gaps at the bottom cannot exceed 2 inches over grass/gravel or 4 inches over concrete. Chain-link mesh cannot exceed 1 3/4 inches, and where horizontal rails are less than 45 inches apart, vertical members must be no more than 1 3/4 inches apart with the rails on the pool side. A 36-inch clear zone must separate the barrier from climbable equipment.
Violations & Fines
A barrier that fails the 48-inch, sphere, spacing or clearance tests will not pass final inspection, and the pool may not be used until corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall must a pool fence be in Horry County?
How wide can gaps in the fence be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Horry County
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