Cumberland County, ME Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Under MUBEC (25 MRS § 2451 et seq.), every Cumberland County municipality enforces the 2021 International Residential Code. IRC Section R326 incorporates the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) for residential pools. IRC Appendix G (Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs) requires that any residential pool, spa, or hot tub containing water more than 24 inches (610 mm) deep be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches (1219 mm) high measured from the outside, with no more than a 2-inch gap to grade, openings small enough that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through, and gates that open outward, are self-closing, and self-latching with the latch at least 54 inches above the ground. Where a wall of the dwelling serves as part of the barrier, doors leading to the pool area must have an audible alarm or the pool itself must have a power safety cover meeting ASTM F 1346. Hot tubs and spas may substitute a locking ANSI/ASTM F 1346 safety cover for the perimeter fence. Cumberland County issues no fencing rule of its own — the operative standard is the municipal building code applying IRC Appendix G.