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Green Bay, WI Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Fence height
48-96 inches
Strength
Withstands 200 lbs of force
Max gap
6 inches
Gate
Locking door/gate required
Exemption
Pools predating 4/20/2004

Summary

Any Green Bay pool, pond, or spa that needs a permit must be fenced 48 to 96 inches high, able to resist 200 pounds of force, with a compliant locking gate.

(2)Fencing. All pools, ponds, or spas requiring a permit shall be encompassed by fencing as required under this subsection. ... 1.The fence must be able to withstand 200 pounds of force in any direction.2.The fence shall be so constructed and designed as to prevent penetration of an object greater than six inches in diameter. ... b.Permanent in-ground pools, ponds, or spas... shall be encompassed by a freestanding fence not less than 48 inches nor more than 96 inches from the ground level.

Full Breakdown

Sec. 8-332(c)(2) requires permitted pools, ponds, and spas to be enclosed by fencing that can withstand 200 pounds of force from any direction and blocks any gap wider than six inches. A permanent in-ground pool needs a freestanding fence between 48 and 96 inches tall, set at least three feet from the water's edge, with a locking door or gate meeting the same height and structural rules. Above-ground pools can instead use a compliant deck-mounted fence, a 48-inch pool wall with access steps removed when not in use, or an equivalent option. Fencing is waived for pools with a locking solid cover, pools inside a building, and pools that predate April 20, 2004.

Violations & Fines

The Building Inspection Division can withhold or revoke a pool permit for noncompliant fencing, and an unfenced permitted pool is enforceable as a code violation subject to a written correction order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall does a pool fence have to be in Green Bay?
Between 48 and 96 inches, per Sec. 8-332(c)(2), with a locking gate meeting the same strength standard as the fence.
Do all backyard pools need a fence?
No: pools with a locking solid cover, pools fully inside a building, and pools that existed before April 20, 2004 are exempt.

Sources & Official References

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