Mobile, AL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Barrier height
- 48 inches minimum
- Depth trigger
- Over 24 inches of water
- Gate requirement
- Self-closing, self-latching
- Fine range
- $250-$500 per day
Summary
Mobile's Property Maintenance Code separately requires private pools, hot tubs and spas over 24 inches deep to have a 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates positioned on the pool side.
Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than 24 inches (610 mm) in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be self-closing and self-latching. Where the self-latching device is less than 54 inches (1372 mm) above the bottom of the gate, the release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the gate. Self-closing and self-latching gates shall be maintained such that the gate will positively close and latch when released from an open position of 6 inches (152 mm) from the gatepost. An existing pool enclosure shall not be removed, replaced or changed in a manner that reduces its effectiveness as a safety barrier.
Exception: Spas or hot tubs with a safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346 shall be exempt from the provisions of this section.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 67).
Full Breakdown
Under Mobile's adopted Property Maintenance Code, private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas holding more than 24 inches of water must be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches high, measured from the ground on the side away from the pool. Gates and doors in the barrier must be self-closing and self-latching; if the latch sits lower than 54 inches, its release mechanism must be on the pool side of the gate. An existing enclosure can't be altered in a way that weakens it as a safety barrier.
Violations & Fines
Violating the Property Maintenance Code's pool-enclosure requirement carries a fine of $250 to $500 plus court costs, with every day the violation continues counted as a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Mobile's property maintenance code also require pool fencing?
Where must a pool gate's latch release be located?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mobile
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