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

California Health & Safety Code §115920 et seq. governs private swimming pool and spa safety statewide, and Richmond enforces these standards through its Building Division during permit review and final inspection. Any pool or spa serving a single-family residence built, remodeled, or re-plastered after January 1, 2018 must include at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features: (1) an enclosure meeting §115923 (minimum 60-inch high barrier, no climbable features, openings less than 4 inches, self-closing/self-latching gate opening outward with latch at least 60 inches above ground); (2) a removable mesh pool fence with a self-closing/self-latching gate; (3) an approved safety pool cover (ASTM F1346); (4) exit alarms on doors providing direct access to the pool; (5) self-closing/self-latching devices on doors at least 54 inches above the floor; (6) an alarm that sounds when a person enters the water; or (7) other means providing equal or greater protection. The barrier must completely enclose the pool, and windows within five feet of the waterline must have screens or locking devices. Real estate transfer disclosure required at sale. Richmond pool permits are issued by the Building Regulations Division.