Palmdale, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger depth
- Pool water depth of 2 feet or more
- Minimum fence height
- 5 feet
- Max opening in fence
- 50 sq. in. (4 in. horizontal rect. exempt)
- Gate latch height
- At least 4 feet above grade
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor, arrest or written promise to appear
Summary
Palmdale requires every pool deeper than two feet to be completely enclosed by a fence, wall or structure at least five feet high under PMC § 8.08.300 and § 8.08.330, with self-closing, self-latching gates under § 8.08.390, and sets material-specific construction standards for wood, wire and masonry fences.
The fence, wall, or other structure required by this article shall be not less than five feet high, measured from the existing surface to the top of the fence or wall on the side of the fence or wall opposite the side towards the pool, with no openings except doors or gates, with an area greater than 50 square inches, except that a rectangular opening having no horizontal dimension exceeding four inches may have a greater area. All gates or doors opening through the fence or structure protecting a swimming pool as required by this article shall be equipped with self-closing and self-latching devices no less than four feet above grade capable of keeping the gate or door securely closed at all times when not in actual use.
Full Breakdown
08) requires every owner or possessor of a swimming pool, fish pond, or other artificial outdoor body of water more than two feet deep and no larger than 10,000 square feet of surface area to erect and maintain a fence, wall or other structure completely surrounding the pool. 330 the barrier must be at least five feet high measured from the ground on the side away from the pool, with no openings exceeding 50 square inches except a rectangular opening whose horizontal dimension does not exceed four inches. 360). Any fence over six feet must also comply with County Ordinance No. 380). 400). 410). 320).
Violations & Fines
Any person owning, maintaining, operating or possessing a pool in violation of Article V is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be arrested and taken before a magistrate by the Sheriff, or released after giving a written promise to appear as provided in County Ordinance No. 6723, per PMC § 8.08.420.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high does a pool fence have to be in Palmdale?
Do Palmdale pool gates need to self-latch?
Are portable pools exempt from Palmdale's fencing rule?
What happens if my Palmdale pool doesn't have a compliant fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Palmdale
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