Memphis, TN Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Memphis follows IRC Appendix G and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. Every residential pool capable of holding 24 inches or more of water must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches tall measured from grade on the approach side. Barrier openings must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere; under chain-link, mesh smaller than 1.25 inches meets the standard. Gates must open outward, be self-closing with self-latching hardware, and have the latch at least 54 inches above grade (or mounted on the pool side 3 inches below the top of the gate). If a dwelling wall forms part of the barrier, all doors providing access to the pool area must have audible alarms, or a lockable safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 must be in place when the pool is unattended. Above-ground pools with 48-inch sidewalls can use the pool wall as the barrier if the ladder is removable or lockable. Existing pools without compliant barriers trigger compliance at change of ownership or at any permit. Failure to maintain barriers can result in citations and civil liability in drowning incidents.