McKinney, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Height
- 48 inches minimum
- Gate
- Self-close, self-latch
- Latch
- 54 inches high
- Door Alarm
- Required if house is barrier
- Pickets
- Under 4 in spacing
Summary
McKinney enforces 2021 IRC Appendix G pool barriers: minimum 48-inch fence, self-closing and self-latching gates opening outward, latch 54 inches high, and door alarms on any house opening into the pool area.
Sec. 341.0645. POOL SAFETY. (a) An owner, manager, operator, or other attendant in charge of a public swimming pool, wading pool, baby pool, hot tub, in-ground spa, water park, spray fountain, or other artificial body of water typically used for recreational swimming, bathing, or play shall comply with relevant pool safety standards adopted under this section. (b) The executive commissioner shall adopt by rule pool safety standards necessary to prevent drowning. The standards must: (1) be at least as stringent as those imposed under the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act; and (2) comply with and adopt by reference a version of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code not older than the version in effect on May 1, 2019.
Full Breakdown
Residential pool and spa barriers must be at least 48 inches high measured on the outside, have no openings greater than 4 inches, and no climbable features within 45 inches of the top. Vertical pickets more than 45 inches apart require spacing under 1.75 inches. Gates must be self-closing, self-latching with the latch at least 54 inches above grade, and open away from the pool. Where a wall of the dwelling serves as part of the barrier, doors leading to the pool area must have a door alarm sounding within 7 seconds or the pool must have a power safety cover meeting ASTM F1346. Above-ground pools with non-climbable sides 48 inches or higher can serve as their own barrier with a removable/lockable ladder.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant barrier: up to $2,000 per TX Health & Safety Code §341.0695. Failure to correct after notice may result in pool being drained under administrative order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fencing is required for pools in McKinney?
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in McKinney
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Fencing & Safety Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Collin County handle fencing & safety requirements.