Santa Maria, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Barrier Height
- 60 inches (5 feet) minimum
- Gates
- Self-closing, self-latching
- Openings
- No gaps larger than 4 inches
- Pool Setback
- 10 feet from front property line
Summary
Santa Maria requires swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 5 feet high per California Building Code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.
(c) “Enclosure” means a fence, wall, or other barrier that isolates a swimming pool from access to the home. (d) “ANSI/APSP performance standard” means a standard that is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and published by the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP). (e) “Suction outlet” means a fitting or fixture typically located at the bottom or on the sides of a swimming pool that conducts water to a recirculating pump. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 769, Sec. 3. (SB 552) Effective January 1, 2025.) 115922. (a) Except as provided in Section 115925, subject to subdivision (b), and consistent with Section 1596.814, when a building permit is issued for the
Full Breakdown
Swimming pools in Santa Maria must be enclosed by a barrier at least 60 inches (5 feet) high per California Building Code and Health and Safety Code §115920-115929. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the latch on the pool side at least 60 inches high. Barrier openings must not allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through. Above-ground pools with walls at least 60 inches may use the pool wall as the barrier if access points are secured. Pools and spas must be located at least 10 feet behind the front property line.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant pool barriers result in code violations and mandatory corrections. Liability exposure increases without barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fence around my pool in Santa Maria?
How far from the property line must a pool be in Santa Maria?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Maria
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Maria to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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