Scott County, MN Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum Height
- 48 inches (4 ft) baseline
- Gates
- Self-closing, self-latching
- Gap Limit
- No 4-inch sphere passes
- Barrier Source
- Local ordinance (state deleted R326)
Summary
Every residential pool needs a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Minnesota struck the pool section from its residential code, so the exact rule is set by your city or the county's adopted code.
IRC section R326 is deleted in its entirety.
Full Breakdown
Minnesota Rules 1309.0326 deletes IRC Section R326 in its entirety, so the residential pool provisions are gone from the state code. Scott County and its cities apply the barrier through local ordinance, generally the Swimming Pool and Spa Code baseline: a 48-inch (four-foot) non-climbable barrier around the whole perimeter. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release at least 54 inches up or on the pool side, and no gap may pass a four-inch sphere. Some metro cities set a higher bar, so verify before you build. A winter safety cover supplements the fence but never replaces it.
Violations & Fines
A pool filled without a compliant barrier fails inspection and draws a correction order and fines until the fence is built. A gate that will not self-close and self-latch is a cited safety defect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall must my pool fence be?
Does a pool cover replace the fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Scott County
Compare Scott County to another location·View the Minnesota swimming pools & spas overview
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