Palm Springs, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Barrier Height
- Minimum 60-inch barrier height (CA H&S §115923)
- Safety Features
- At least two drowning-prevention features required
- Gate Type
- Self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward
- Openings
- Openings under 4 inches; no climbable horizontals
- Scope
- Applies to new and remodeled pools/spas
Summary
Palm Springs enforces California Building Code Appendix V and Health & Safety Code §115920–115929 (the Swimming Pool Safety Act) requiring barriers at least 60 inches tall with self-closing, self-latching gates and at least two approved drowning-prevention safety features for any new or remodeled pool or spa. Permits and inspections are required through Palm Springs Building and Safety.
(a) Except as provided in Section 115925, subject to subdivision (b), and consistent with Section 1596.814, when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming pool or spa or the remodeling of an existing swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with at least two of the following seven drowning prevention safety features:
(1) An enclosure that meets the requirements of Section 115923 and isolates the swimming pool or spa from the private single-family home.
(2) Removable mesh fencing that meets the ASTM International F2286 standard in conjunction with a gate that is self-closing and self-latching and can accommodate a key lockable device.
(3) A manually operated or power-operated safety pool cover that is accompanied by a label verifying that the cover meets the specifications of the ASTM International F1346-23 standard.
(4) Exit alarms on the private single-family home's doors and windows that provide direct access to the swimming pool or spa without any intervening enclosure.
(5) A self-closing, self-latching device with a release mechanism placed no lower than 54 inches above the floor on the private single-family home's doors providing direct access to the swimming pool or spa. An enclosure shall have all of the following characteristics:
(a) Any access gates through the enclosure open away from the swimming pool, and are self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground.
(b) A minimum height of 60 inches.
(c) A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches.
(d) Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four inches in diameter.
(e) 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.
Full Breakdown
Pool and spa barriers in Palm Springs follow state law and the California Residential/Building Code as adopted by the city. Under California Health and Safety Code §115922, any new pool or spa or any pool/spa undergoing remodel at a single-family home must be equipped with at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features, including: an enclosure (fence/wall) meeting the five-foot separation standard; a removable mesh pool fence with self-closing self-latching gate; an approved safety pool cover; exit alarms on all doors providing direct access from the home to the pool; a self-closing, self-latching device on doors providing direct access from the home with release at least 54 inches above the floor; an alarm that activates on unintentional entry; or other means providing equivalent protection.
The enclosure option (most common) requires: minimum 60-inch (5-foot) height measured from outside grade; no openings greater than 4 inches; no horizontal members that could function as a ladder within 45 inches of grade (for 48–59 inch fences); gates that open outward and are self-closing and self-latching with the release mechanism at least 54 inches above the ground. 75 inches or less if used. Permits are required for all pool construction and for any barrier installed as part of pool safety compliance. Palm Springs Building and Safety inspects barriers before final pool approval.
Short-term rentals under PSMC Ch. 25 must maintain full pool barrier compliance and disclose pool safety to guests; STR violations affecting pool safety can trigger permit suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my house wall as one side of the pool fence?
Do short-term rentals have extra pool safety rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Palm Springs
California rules heatmap·Compare Palm Springs to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Fencing & Safety Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Riverside County handle fencing & safety requirements.