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

Trinity County has its own explicit pool-fence rule. Zoning Section 17.30.070 states that "all such swimming pools shall be completely enclosed by a fence at least six feet in height, and all gates shall be self-latching." That six-foot (72-inch) local standard is stricter than the statewide minimum. Separately, because the County issues building permits under the adopted California Residential Code, the state Swimming Pool Safety Act applies. Under Health & Safety Code 115922, when a building permit is issued for a new pool or spa (or a remodel) at a private single-family home, the pool must have at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention features. One option is an enclosure meeting Section 115923, which requires a minimum height of 60 inches, a maximum 2-inch gap at the bottom, no openings that pass a 4-inch sphere, no exterior handholds/footholds a young child could climb, and access gates that open away from the pool and are self-closing and self-latching with the latch placed at least 60 inches high. Other accepted features include approved safety covers, door/window exit alarms, self-closing self-latching doors with a release at least 54 inches high, and in-water alarms. Property owners must satisfy both the County's six-foot fence rule and the state Act. Always confirm details with the Trinity County Building Division before construction.