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

California state law preempts local pool barrier rules. Per HSC §115923, a permanent pool enclosure must be a minimum of 60 inches high, with no more than 2 inches of vertical clearance between the bottom of the barrier and the ground. Any openings must not pass a 4-inch sphere, and the outside surface must be free of handholds or footholds. Gates must open away from the pool, be self-closing, and self-latching, with the release at least 60 inches above the ground. Per HSC §115922, any new or remodeled pool, spa, or hot tub deeper than 18 inches must have at least two of seven approved drowning prevention safety features: (1) a code-compliant enclosure, (2) removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286 with a self-closing/self-latching gate, (3) an ASTM F1346 approved safety cover, (4) exit alarms on house doors providing direct pool access, (5) self-closing/self-latching devices on doors with release at least 54 inches above the floor, (6) a pool alarm meeting ASTM F2208, or (7) other equivalent protection independently verified. Martinez Municipal Code Title 17 governs swimming pool permits, plans/specifications, and inspections through the Building Division at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street. The California Building Code §3109 (adopted via MMC §15.04) and California Residential Code Appendix AX provide the technical pool barrier and safety device standards enforced at plan check and final inspection.