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

Fencing: Minimum of 60" (inches) in height above the ground. (Sutter County Ordinance 1350-20) Opening between the ground and bottom of the fence is not more than 2" (inches). Openings in the fence shall not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than 4" (inches). An outside surface free of protrusions, cavities or other physical characteristics that would serve as handholds or footholds that could enable a child below the age of five years to climb over. Horizontal members shall be spaced at least 48" (inches) apart. Chain link may be used provided that the openings are not greater than 2 1/4" (inches) ... Gate/Doors: Minimum of 60" (inches) in height above the ground. (Sutter County Ordinance 1350-20) Access gates shall open away from the swimming pool. Shall be a self-closing, self-latching with latching device to be a minimum of 60" (inches) above the ground. All man doors giving direct access to swimming pool area: Shall be equipped with self-closing, self-latching device placed no lower than 54" (inches) above the floor. Doors with direct access to the pool shall be equipped with an audible alarm. The deactivation device shall be located at least 54" (inches) above the threshold of the door. ... Safety pool cover: complying with American Society For Testing and Materials (ASTM - F1346) or approved by Chief Building Official/Building Inspector may be used in lieu of alarm devices that are required for doors and sliding doors. No water shall be placed in the pool until the barriers have been approved by the Sutter County Building Department.