Alpine County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Because the County adopted California Residential Code Appendix AX (Swimming Pool Safety Act) by reference in Alpine County Code 15.04.020, the statewide barrier standard governs in unincorporated Alpine County. Health & Safety Code Section 115923 sets the enclosure rules: a barrier at least 60 inches high measured from the outside, no more than 2 inches of clearance at grade, no openings that pass a 4-inch sphere, and gates that open away from the pool with self-latching hardware released from the pool side, located at least 60 inches above the ground (or with the release at least 3 inches below the top on the pool side). For new construction or remodels at single-family homes, Health & Safety Code Section 115922(a) requires at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention features (the isolation enclosure, an ASTM F2286 removable mesh fence, an ASTM F1346 safety cover, door alarms, self-closing/self-latching door hardware, an ASTM F2208 pool alarm, or an approved alternative). The County's separate zoning fence rule (ACC 18.68.140(H): 6 feet maximum in RE/RN side and rear yards, 4.5 feet in front yards) is a general fence-height limit and does not replace the Pool Safety Act barrier; a compliant pool barrier must still meet the 60-inch state standard.