Skokie, IL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Skokie's adopted building codes require pool barriers meeting the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. Barriers must be at least 48 inches high measured on the side facing away from the pool. Openings in barriers may not permit passage of a 4-inch sphere. The maximum ground-to-bottom-of-barrier clearance is 2 inches on the outside (4 inches over a solid surface on the inside). Horizontal members on the pool side closer than 45 inches apart must use vertical member spacing of 1.75 inches or less. Chain-link fencing with maximum 1.25-inch mesh is acceptable. Pool barrier gates must be self-closing and self-latching, open outward from the pool, with the latch at least 54 inches above the ground. Where a dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier, doors leading to the pool must have an alarm or the pool must have a power safety cover. Above-ground pools with walls at least 48 inches high may use the pool wall as the barrier if the ladder is secured, locked, or removed when the pool is not in use. Hot tubs and spas with a safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 are exempt from barrier requirements.