South San Francisco, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Min. Fence Height
- 60 inches (5 ft)
- Gate
- Self-closing, self-latching, opens away from pool
- Additional Safety
- Two drowning prevention features required
- Code
- CA H&S §115920-115929
Summary
Pool fences in South San Francisco must comply with California H&S §115920: minimum 60-inch barrier, self-closing/self-latching gates, ground clearance under 2 inches, no gaps over 4 inches. Two drowning prevention features required.
115923. An enclosure shall have all of the following characteristics:
(a) Any access gates through the enclosure open away from the swimming pool, and are self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground.
(b) A minimum height of 60 inches.
(c) A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches.
(d) Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four inches in diameter.
(e) An outside surface free of protrusions, cavities, or other physical characteristics that would serve as handholds or footholds that could enable a child below the age of five years to climb over. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 925, Sec. 3.5. Effective January 1, 1997.)
115921. As used in this article, the following terms have the following meanings:
(c) "Enclosure" means a fence, wall, or other barrier that isolates a swimming pool from access to the home.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
South San Francisco enforces California Health & Safety Code §115920 (Swimming Pool Safety Act). Pool barriers must be at least 60 inches high, self-closing and self-latching, with latches at least 60 inches above ground. Ground clearance must be less than 2 inches; no gaps over 4 inches in diameter. Gates must open away from the pool. Two additional drowning prevention features (pool alarm, door alarm, safety cover, or removable mesh fence) are required. Contact Building Division at (650) 829-6670.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fence does my pool need in South San Francisco?
How tall must a pool fence be in South San Francisco?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in South San Francisco
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Fencing & Safety Requirements in Nearby Cities
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