Greenville County, SC Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Gates
- Self-closing, self-latching, open outward
- Direct-access doors
- Alarm required
- Climb clear zone
- 36 inches minimum
- Safety cover option
- ASTM F 1346
- Code
- ISPSC Section 305.3-305.4
Summary
Where a house wall serves as part of the barrier, doors and low windows with direct pool access must have an audible alarm. Pedestrian gates must open outward, be self-closing, and self-latching, per the ISPSC adopted by Greenville County.
Pedestrian access gates shall open outward away from the pool or spa, shall be self-closing and shall have a self-latching device.
Full Breakdown
ISPSC Section 305, adopted countywide, requires layered drowning protection. Access gates must be self-closing, self-latching, open outward away from the pool, and accommodate a locking device. Where a dwelling wall is part of the barrier and a door or low window (sill under 48 inches) provides direct access, it must have a listed water-hazard alarm (or an approved equivalent, or an ASTM F 1346 safety cover). A clear zone of at least 36 inches must separate the barrier from climbable equipment like pumps and heaters. Greenville County notes all barriers, gates, and alarms are inspected at the pool's final inspection.
Violations & Fines
Barriers, gates, and alarms must be in place before final inspection. A $20 re-inspection fee applies otherwise; noncompliance may bring a civil citation under SC Code Section 6-9-80, and the pool may not be used until approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my back door to the pool need an alarm?
Which way must the gate open?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Greenville County
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