Little Elm, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Min Height
- 48 inches non-climbable
- Chain Link
- Prohibited for new enclosures
- Gates
- Self-closing, self-latching required
- Door/Window Alarms
- Required within 5 ft of water
- Code
- 2018 IRC App. G AG105
Summary
Little Elm requires 48-inch non-climbable pool barriers per 2018 IRC Appendix G AG105. Chain link prohibited for new enclosures. Self-closing, self-latching gates mandatory.
Sec. 757.003. ENCLOSURE FOR POOL YARD. (a) Except as otherwise provided by Section 757.005, the owner of a multiunit rental complex with a pool or a property owners association that owns, controls, or maintains a pool shall completely enclose the pool yard with a pool yard enclosure.(b) The height of the pool yard enclosure must be at least 48 inches as measured from the ground on the side away from the pool.(c) Openings under the pool yard enclosure may not allow a sphere four inches in diameter to pass under the pool yard enclosure.(d) If the pool yard enclosure is constructed with horizontal and vertical members and the distance between the tops of the horizontal members is at least 45 inches, the openings may not allow a sphere fo
Full Breakdown
Per the Town of Little Elm Pool and Spa Requirements document from the Building Safety Division (updated March 18, 2024), all residential swimming pools must be enclosed by a barrier complying with the 2018 International Residential Code Appendix G Section AG105. The barrier must be at least 48 inches high and non-climbable from the exterior side. Horizontal members on the exterior that could serve as footholds may require a 2x cut at a 45-degree angle to prevent climbing. Chain link fencing is prohibited for new pool enclosures.
Self-closing and self-latching gates are required, with latches positioned on the pool side of the gate at least 54 inches above grade or otherwise inaccessible to young children. All exterior doors and windows within 5 feet of the waters edge must have safety glazing and audible alarms that activate when opened. During pool construction, temporary fencing must be maintained at all times around the excavation and pool area. Existing pools that undergo major renovation may be required to bring barriers into compliance with current code. The Building Safety Division conducts inspections for barrier compliance as part of the pool permit process.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant pool barrier: permit hold, stop-work order, and fine. Failure to maintain barriers: code enforcement citation and mandatory correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fence is required around a pool in Little Elm?
Do I need door alarms near my pool?
Is temporary fencing needed during pool construction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Little Elm
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