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

The City of Hanford does not maintain a separate municipal pool barrier ordinance; it enforces the state framework through the building codes adopted in Hanford Municipal Code Title 15 (California Building Standards Code) and through Title 17 zoning. Hanford's Building Division (559-585-2580) confirms the city is currently enforcing the 2022 California Building, Residential, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire, and Energy Codes. Under Health & Safety Code §115923, the barrier must be at least 60 inches above grade measured from the side facing away from the pool, with no more than 2 inches of clearance under the bottom, no openings that allow passage of a 4-inch sphere (1 3/4-inch chain-link mesh maximum), and an outside face free of handholds or footholds.

Gates must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, and the latch release must be at least 60 inches above the ground. Per HSC §115922, when a building permit is issued for a new pool or substantial remodel, the pool must include at least two of seven approved features: an enclosure meeting §115923; an ASTM F2286 removable mesh fence with a key-lockable gate; an ASTM F1346 approved safety cover; exit alarms on house doors with direct pool access; self-closing, self-latching devices on those house doors with release at least 54 inches above the floor; an ASTM F2208 pool alarm; or other independently verified equivalent protection.

Hanford zoning (Title 17) separately requires above- or below-ground pools to be set back at least 5 feet from all lot lines. Prefabricated above-ground pools holding 5,000 gallons or less with walls entirely above grade are exempt from a building permit, but the state barrier rules still apply, and the Planning Division should be contacted to verify zoning compliance.