Humble, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Under Humble's building code and the International Residential Code adopted by Texas, all residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs capable of holding water 24 inches or more in depth must be enclosed by a barrier (fence, wall, or combination) meeting specific standards. The barrier must be at least 48 inches high measured on the outside of the barrier. Openings in the barrier must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere (no gaps larger than 4 inches). Chain-link fencing must not have openings larger than 1.75 inches. Gates in the barrier must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch located at least 54 inches above the ground or on the pool side of the gate behind a shielded mechanism. Pedestrian access gates must open outward, away from the pool. If the dwelling serves as one side of the barrier, doors with direct pool access must have alarms or self-closing devices. Above-ground pools with sides 48 inches or higher may satisfy the barrier requirement with their walls, but access points (ladders, steps) must be removable or gated. Community Development inspects pool barriers as part of the pool permitting process.