St. Peters, MO Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Section 523.010 adopts the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and Section 523.050 amends it with a local barrier rule at 305.5, Onground Residential Pool Structure As A Barrier. Where only the pool wall serves as the barrier, the wall's bottom must be on grade and its top not less than 48 inches above grade around the entire perimeter of the pool, and the wall must meet Section 305.2 and be approved by the pool manufacturer to serve as a barrier. Where a separate barrier is mounted on top of the pool wall instead, that barrier's top must likewise be at least 48 inches above grade, and both the wall and the mounted barrier must meet Section 305.2.

Where the pool structure itself is used as the barrier and access is by a ladder or steps, the ladder or steps must either be capable of being automatically raised or secured by a release mechanism located 54 inches above the walking surface, or be surrounded by their own barrier meeting Section 305.3, and any opening created by securing, locking, or removing the ladder or steps may not allow a 4-inch-diameter sphere to pass through. Barriers mounted on top of onground pool walls must be installed according to the pool manufacturer's instructions. The Building Commissioner, as Code Official under Section 523.030, enforces the barrier standard during permit inspection.