Fresno, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Fresno regulates residential pool barriers under the California Swimming Pool Safety Act, Health and Safety Code sections 115920 through 115929, applied locally through the 2022 California Residential Code Appendix AX as adopted by the City. A 'swimming pool' is any structure containing water over 18 inches deep, including in-ground and above-ground pools, hot tubs, spas, portable spas, and nonportable wading pools. Under Health and Safety Code Section 115923, the required enclosure must have a minimum height of 60 inches around its entire perimeter, a maximum vertical ground clearance of 2 inches, and no gaps that allow a 4-inch sphere to pass; its outside surface must be free of handholds or footholds a child under five could use to climb.

Access gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground (the latch is positioned to keep gates securely closed and latched whenever not in actual use). A dwelling wall may form part of the enclosure only if every door providing direct access to the pool is equipped with exit alarms installed at least 54 inches above the finished floor. Glazing used as a barrier within 60 inches of the water and below 60 inches off the walking surface must be approved safety glazing.

The City of Fresno Code Enforcement division (559) 621-8400 enforces these fence rules and notes that pool fences are required around swimming pools, wading pools, and Jacuzzis.