Salt Lake County, UT Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Swimming pool and spa barriers in unincorporated Salt Lake County follow the residential pool requirements of the International Residential Code Appendix (adopted by reference in Utah with state amendments). The minimum barrier height is 48 inches measured on the outside of the barrier. Openings in the barrier must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere, and the bottom of the barrier must be no more than 2 inches above grade on a solid surface or 4 inches above grade above a softer surface. Gates must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch located at least 54 inches above the ground. When a dwelling wall forms part of the barrier, doors with direct access to the pool must have either an alarm sounding within 7 seconds of opening, a self-closing and self-latching device 54 inches above the floor, or a separate pool safety cover. Above-ground pools may use the pool's own sidewalls as the barrier if the wall is at least 48 inches high and the ladder is removed, secured, or surrounded by a barrier. Spas and hot tubs with a locking safety cover that meets ASTM F1346 are exempt from the fence requirement. Compliance is verified at final inspection and must be maintained for the life of the pool.