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

Under the Pool Safety Act (as amended by AB 2317 to require two features rather than one), every new pool or spa must satisfy at least two of the following at final: (1) an enclosing fence at least 60 inches tall with a self-closing, self-latching gate opening outward, latch at least 54 inches high, with maximum openings that won't permit a 4-inch sphere to pass; (2) an approved safety pool cover meeting ASTM F1346; (3) exit alarms on doors of the dwelling providing direct access to the pool; (4) self-closing, self-latching devices on those doors with the release at least 54 inches above the floor; (5) a pool alarm detecting unauthorized entry; (6) a removable mesh pool fence meeting ASTM F2286, combined with a self-closing, self-latching gate; or (7) other means of protection providing equivalent degree of protection. Isolation fencing — a fence that separates the pool from the house and the yard — is stronger protection than a perimeter fence alone and is strongly encouraged. Openings in the fence may not exceed 4 inches, and picket spacing must prevent child climb-over (no horizontal members between pickets within the climbable zone). Gates must self-close and self-latch and swing away from the pool. Point-of-sale home inspections flag missing pool safety features. The City inspects fencing at the pool's final building inspection, and no certificate of occupancy or final approval issues until two compliant features are in place. Violations after installation — such as removing a safety cover or disabling door alarms — can create civil liability in the event of a drowning.