Michigan requires every residential pool to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet) high, with self-closing, self-latching gates that swing away from the pool. This state code is enforced by your Macomb County city or township building department, not the county.
Under the Michigan Residential Code (Section R327, adopting the ISPSC), any outdoor residential pool, hot tub, or spa must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet) high, measured on the side facing away from the pool. The gap underneath may not exceed 2 inches. Pedestrian gates must open outward, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release on the pool side. The local building department enforces this across Macomb County communities, not the county. Where an above-ground pool wall serves as the barrier, the ladder or steps must be removable, lockable, or surrounded by a compliant barrier, and doors with direct pool access must have an audible alarm. A separate fence permit is typically required.
A pool without a compliant 48-inch barrier fails final building inspection, so it cannot legally be filled or used. The local building official may issue correction orders and withhold approval until the barrier, gates, and alarms comply.
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