Ventura County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Ventura County does not publish its own pool-fence height in the zoning code; instead it enforces California's statewide Swimming Pool Safety Act through the Ventura County Building Code and the adopted California Residential Code. Under Health and Safety Code Sec. 115922, whenever a building permit is issued for the construction or remodel of a swimming pool or spa at a single-family home, the pool or spa must be equipped with at least two of seven drowning-prevention safety features. The list includes: an enclosure that meets Section 115923 and isolates the pool from the home; removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286 with a self-closing, self-latching, key-lockable gate; an ASTM F1346 approved safety pool cover; exit alarms on doors and windows with direct pool access; a self-closing, self-latching device with a release mechanism placed no lower than 54 inches above the floor; an ASTM F2208 in-water alarm; or another protective means providing equal or greater protection. Section 115923 sets the enclosure standard for those who choose the fence option. Because the County requires verification of these features as part of the pool permit and a pool safety inspection, builders typically install an isolation fence/enclosure plus a second qualifying feature. The County's Building and Safety Division reviews the chosen features at plan check and confirms them before final sign-off.