Rancho Cordova, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Height
- At least 60 inches
- Ground Gap
- Max 2 inches
- Picket Spacing
- Max 1.75 inches typical
- Gate
- Self-closing, self-latching
- State Law
- HSC 115923
Summary
Rancho Cordova pool enclosures must comply with California Building Code and Health and Safety Code section 115923. The enclosure must be at least 60 inches tall, have no climbable features or gaps exceeding 4 inches, and include self-closing, self-latching gates that open outward away from the pool with latches at least 60 inches above the ground.
An enclosure shall have all of the following characteristics:
(a) Any access gates through the enclosure open away from the swimming pool, and are self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground.
(b) A minimum height of 60 inches.
(c) A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches.
(d) Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four inches in diameter.
(e) An outside surface free of protrusions, cavities, or other physical characteristics that would serve as handholds or footholds that could enable a child below the age of five years to climb over.
Full Breakdown
Pool barrier standards follow statewide rules codified in the California Building Code and Health and Safety Code section 115923. Key requirements: minimum barrier height of 60 inches measured from the ground on the outside of the fence; maximum vertical clearance of 2 inches from the ground; no openings, handholds, or footholds that could allow a child under 5 to climb over; gates must be self-closing and self-latching with release mechanisms at least 60 inches above the ground; horizontal members on the pool side must be spaced at least 45 inches apart (otherwise vertical spacing between pickets must be no greater than 1.75 inches). Where a wall of a dwelling serves as part of the pool barrier, doors providing direct access to the pool must have alarms or other approved safety features. These rules apply to new pools and substantial remodels completed after January 1, 2018.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant barriers can result in citations, require immediate remediation, and expose owners to civil liability in the event of a drowning. The city can refuse final pool inspection until barriers comply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my house wall be part of the pool barrier?
Do I need to upgrade an older pool barrier?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rancho Cordova
California rules heatmap·Compare Rancho Cordova to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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Fencing & Safety Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sacramento County handle fencing & safety requirements.