Monroe Township (Middlesex County), NJ: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Section 108-12.31, Swimming pools, in Chapter 108 Land Development, governs private swimming pools in residential side or rear yards: permanent in-ground pools, permanent aboveground pools equipped with fences built above the top level of the pool, and temporary aboveground pools without such fences. Subsection I requires permanent in-ground pools to be surrounded entirely by a fence with no openings greater than two inches square that meets the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code, though the sides of the residence can serve as part of the enclosure. The fence must sit not less than six feet from the closest edge of the pool and be at least four feet high, and wire fences must be chainlink-type. All supporting structures go on the inside of the fence, with the top of each support at least one inch lower than the top of the fence.

Permanent aboveground pools built with an attached fence at least four feet high above ground level that meets the New Jersey Construction Code need no additional fencing. Temporary aboveground pools must be emptied or covered with a suitable protective covering, securely fastened or locked in place, when not in use, unless enclosed by a fence meeting the in-ground requirements.

Subsection J covers gates. Any opening for entry must have a gate similar to the fence, extending from not more than two inches above the ground to the height of the fence. The gate must be self-closing, open outwardly only and carry a lock and key or padlock and chain, and it stays locked except when the pool is in use.

Related rules in the same section: no overhead electric lines across any pool or wading area (subsection C); pool lighting shielded against direct beams on adjoining property (B); no activities causing undue noise or a nuisance to a neighbor (D); and a drainage system leading to a street or brook for a pool situated or extended above ground level and less than 50 feet from an abutting property (H). Under § 44-78, aboveground pools are prohibited in floodways.