York County, SC Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Barrier
- Required statewide
- Code
- IRC Appendix G
- Height
- At least 48 inches
- Gates
- Self-closing, self-latching
Summary
York County enforces a residential pool barrier through the International Residential Code, Appendix G, adopted statewide by the South Carolina Building Codes Council. The barrier must be at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates.
The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the swimming pool.
Full Breakdown
On unincorporated York County land, a backyard pool barrier is not optional. South Carolina adopts the International Residential Code statewide through the Building Codes Council, and its Appendix G requires residential swimming pools to be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing and self-latching gates that open away from the pool. Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Clover, and York enforce the same IRC barrier standard through their building departments. Beyond code, homeowner insurers routinely demand a compliant fence, and an unfenced pool is a serious attractive-nuisance liability if a child drowns: a live risk in this fast-growing, family-heavy metro.
Violations & Fines
A residential pool without the required Appendix G barrier fails York County building inspection and draws a correction order. An unfenced pool is also a powerful negligence and attractive-nuisance exposure in a civil suit if a child is hurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Must I fence my pool in York County?
Does the same rule apply inside the cities?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in York County
Compare York County to another location·View the South Carolina swimming pools & spas overview
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