Phoenix, AZ Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Phoenix adopted the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) with City amendments by Ordinance G-7397, effective August 1, 2025, layered over the original pool-barrier ordinance G-3316 (May 4, 1990). Under amended Section 305.2.1, the top of the perimeter barrier must be at least 60 inches (5 feet) above grade measured on the side facing away from the pool, with no opening that allows a 4-inch sphere to pass, a maximum 2-inch ground clearance (4 inches over a solid surface such as concrete), and at least 45 inches between horizontal members to prevent climbing. Chain-link mesh openings may not exceed 1-3/4 inches (Section 305.2.8). Gates (Section 305.3.2) must be self-closing and self-latching, swing outward away from the pool, accommodate a lock, and have the latch at least 54 inches above grade. Where a wall of the dwelling serves as part of the barrier (Section 305.4), doors leading directly to the pool must be self-closing, self-latching, swing away from the pool, and have a release at least 54 inches above the floor, or the home must use an alarm system, a powered safety cover, or other approved protection. These mirror Arizona's statewide pool-fence statute A.R.S. Section 36-1681, which sets the five-foot enclosure minimum and expressly allows local governments to adopt ordinances equal to or more stringent than the state baseline. The inner-yard barrier separating the house from the pool is required for all pools permitted after May 4, 1990, and must be installed retroactively on older pools whenever a child under six becomes an occupant.