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

Oakland enforces the state Swimming Pool Safety Act at plan review and final inspection. The isolation barrier must be at least 60 inches high measured from the ground on the outside, with no more than 2 inches of clearance at the bottom, no more than 4 inches between vertical members, and no horizontal climbable members on the pool side. Gates must swing outward away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch at least 60 inches above grade. In addition to the fence, a second safety feature is required: approved pool safety covers (ASTM F1346), exit alarms on doors opening onto the pool yard, self-closing/self-latching doors with release mechanisms 54 inches high, pool alarms meeting ASTM F2208, or other approved means. Chain-link fencing is permitted only if the mesh opening does not exceed 1.75 inches. The Bureau of Building verifies compliance before issuing a Certificate of Final Inspection. Sale of any single-family home with a pool built before 1998 requires disclosure and often retrofit to meet current barrier standards. Non-compliance is both a code violation and creates significant civil liability exposure.