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

The City of Merced enforces pool barrier requirements through adopted state standards rather than a unique local fence ordinance. MMC Section 20.28.020.D.2 states that "fences, barriers, and pool equipment storage areas for swimming pools shall be provided as required by the building code and state law." The applicable building code is the 2025 California Residential Code, adopted by MMC Section 17.05.010, which expressly includes Appendix CI, the "Swimming Pool Safety Act." Under the state Swimming Pool Safety Act (California Health and Safety Code Sections 115922-115923), a new or remodeled residential pool or spa must have at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention features, one of which is an isolation enclosure. A qualifying enclosure must be at least 60 inches high, have no more than a 2-inch gap at the bottom, have gaps too small to pass a 4-inch sphere, and have gates that open away from the pool and are self-closing and self-latching with the latch placed at least 60 inches above the ground. Separately, Merced's own Zoning Code fence height limits in Chapter 20.30 (generally 4 feet in front/exterior yards and up to 7 feet elsewhere) apply to the property's perimeter fences. Pool owners therefore meet a 60-inch state isolation barrier as well as the City's perimeter-fence rules.