Montgomery, AL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

1 of the adopted International Pool and Spa Code, 2024 edition (City Code Sec. 5-71(h)), to require a barrier for the design of any pool or spa containing water more than 24 inches deep. The stated purpose is to cut the risk of drowning and near-drowning by restricting access to such pools or spas through an integrated level of protection using physical barriers and warning devices. The city carved out two exceptions from the barrier mandate: spas and hot tubs fitted with a lockable safety cover meeting ASTM F 1346, and swimming pools fitted with a powered safety cover meeting the same ASTM F 1346 standard, in place of a perimeter fence.

Because Montgomery adopted the balance of the International Pool and Spa Code by reference at Sec. 5-71, the underlying barrier specifications in IPSC Section 305, such as minimum height, gate self-closing and self-latching hardware, and maximum gaps, apply as printed in the 2024 IPSC on file with the city clerk; Montgomery's own amendment addresses only the scope and the two cover exceptions. Building permit applications for new pools are reviewed by the city's Inspections Division for compliance with the barrier requirement before final approval, and pools installed without a required barrier can be flagged pending correction.