Residential pools deeper than 24 inches must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches high, measured from the outside grade. This is set by the North Carolina Residential Code (adopted IRC), which applies statewide across Forsyth County.
Under NC Residential Code Appendix NCA, Section NCA105.2.1, the top of the barrier must be at least 48 inches above grade around the entire pool. For non-solid surfaces like grass or gravel, the gap under the barrier cannot exceed 2 inches (NCA105.2.1(2)). Openings must not pass a 4-inch sphere, and there must be no external handholds or footholds. These requirements apply to any pool, spa, or hot tub holding water over 24 inches deep at a one- or two-family dwelling. Public and semi-public pools follow the stricter 15A NCAC 18A .2528 fence rule enforced by NC DHHS.
Failure to provide a code-compliant barrier will fail the required inspection and can block final approval of the pool. Continued noncompliance is a State Building Code violation subject to enforcement.
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