Kennewick, WA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Kennewick applies the state-adopted pool-barrier rules to every residential pool 24 inches or deeper, in-ground or above-ground, through KMC Chapter 15.44 and WAC 51-50. The barrier requirements track IBC Appendix G / ISPSC Section 305: minimum 48-inch height measured on the outside (non-pool) face; maximum 2-inch gap between barrier bottom and grade (4 inches on the pool side if grade is a solid surface); openings small enough that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass; for solid barriers with horizontal members, the horizontal members must be on the pool side or spaced at least 45 inches apart to prevent climbing; chain-link mesh openings no greater than 1.75 inches unless slatted; gates open outward away from the pool and must be self-closing and self-latching with the release at least 54 inches above grade on the inside. Where a wall of the dwelling forms part of the barrier (a common above-ground configuration), every door with direct pool access must be equipped with an audible alarm conforming to UL 2017 (continuously sounding alarm for at least 30 seconds when opened) or a self-closing, self-latching device with the release at least 54 inches above the floor. Above-ground pools may use their structural wall as the barrier if it is at least 48 inches high and steps/ladders are removable, lockable, or surrounded by a compliant barrier. The barrier must be in place and pass inspection before water is added. Public and semi-public pools have additional barrier and signage standards under WAC 246-260, enforced by the Benton-Franklin Health District.