California's Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code §115920+) requires every new residential pool or spa to have at least TWO of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features, including a 60-inch enclosure with self-closing/self-latching gates, approved safety cover, door alarms, or removable mesh fencing. Palm Springs enforces these at permit issuance and inspection.
The California Swimming Pool Safety Act (H&S §115921-115922.5) was strengthened by SB 442 (2018) to require that new and remodeled residential pools/spas incorporate at least two of seven safety features: (1) enclosure isolating the pool from the home meeting §115923 (minimum 60 inches high, no gap > 4 inches, self-closing self-latching gate opening away from the pool with release 54 inches above ground); (2) removable mesh fencing with self-closing/self-latching gate; (3) approved safety cover per ASTM F1346; (4) exit alarms on doors with direct pool access; (5) self-closing/self-latching doors with release 54 inches high; (6) other protection equivalent in effectiveness; (7) alarms on pool/spa. Palm Springs reviews the chosen combination on the permit and verifies installation at final inspection. Gates must open outward, away from the pool. Pet doors are problematic - openings > 4 inches create a non-compliant hazard. Glass pool fencing is popular in mid-century remodels but must still meet the 60-inch height and non-climbable surface rules. Non-compliance found at resale often requires retrofit.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Palm Springs code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle fencing requirements.
See how Palm Springs's fencing requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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