Placer County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Code sections
- PCC 15.04.320; CBC 3109; HSC 115923
- Minimum enclosure height
- 60 inches above grade
- Gate latch height
- At least 60 inches above ground
- Max bottom clearance
- 2 inches from ground
- Max opening
- No 4-inch sphere passage
Summary
Under Placer County Code 15.04.320 and CBC Section 3109, a private pool or spa must have a permanent enclosure at least 60 inches high (measured on the outside) before it is filled. Gates must self-close and self-latch with the latch at least 60 inches above ground, and openings must not pass a 4-inch sphere.
The top of the enclosure shall be at least 60 inches above grade measured on the side of the enclosure that faces away from the swimming pool. Maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of 2 inches. Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than 4 inches in diameter. 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.
Full Breakdown
320 and Health and Safety Code Section 115923. A pool or spa (any structure holding water over 18 inches deep) must have a permanent, non-removable enclosure before filling with water. The enclosure must be at least 60 inches above grade measured on the side facing away from the pool; have a maximum 2-inch vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure; have no gaps that pass a sphere 4 inches or greater in diameter; and present an outside surface free of handholds or footholds that a child under five could climb.
Horizontal members must be spaced at least 48 inches apart; chain link openings cannot exceed 1-3/4 inches, and welded-wire fence (minimum 14 gauge) must have vertical-wire spacing no greater than 1-3/4 inches. Access gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing and self-latching with the latch placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground. '
Violations & Fines
A swimming pool permit will not be issued, and the pool may not be filled, until the enclosure requirements are met and the signed acknowledgment form is returned. Owners and occupants are responsible for maintaining all required enclosures and safety elements at all times. Non-compliance is enforced through CDRA building/code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall must a pool fence be in unincorporated Placer County?
Can chain-link be used for a pool fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Placer County
California rules heatmap·Compare Placer County to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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