Tempe, AZ Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- ARS 36-1681
- Barrier Height
- 5 feet (60 inches) minimum
- Gate Latch
- 54 inches above grade, self-closing/self-latching
- Opening Size
- No gap allowing 4-inch sphere
- House Doors
- Self-closing device and alarm if opening to pool
- Green Pools
- Unmaintained pools also a code violation
Summary
Tempe enforces strict pool barrier requirements aligned with Arizona state law (ARS 36-1681). All pools, hot tubs, and spas with water over 18 inches deep must be enclosed by a barrier at least 5 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Gate latches must be at least 54 inches above grade. The city inspects pool barriers during construction, remodels, and property sales.
A swimming pool, or other contained body of water that contains water eighteen inches or more in depth at any point and that is wider than eight feet at any point and is intended for swimming, shall be protected by an enclosure surrounding the pool area, as provided in this section.
B. A swimming pool or other contained body of water required to be enclosed by subsection A whether a belowground or aboveground pool shall meet the following requirements:
1. Be entirely enclosed by at least a five foot wall, fence or other barrier as measured on the exterior side of the wall, fence or barrier.
2. Have no openings in the wall, fence or barrier through which a spherical object four inches in diameter can pass.
Full Breakdown
Pool barrier requirements in Tempe comply with and supplement ARS 36-1681. Every swimming pool, hot tub, or spa with water exceeding 18 inches must be completely enclosed by a barrier at least 60 inches high. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with latches at least 54 inches from grade. No opening in the barrier can allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. Climbable elements within 45 inches of the ground are prohibited on the pool side. House walls may serve as part of the barrier, but any doors opening to the pool area must have self-closing devices and alarms. Tempe's building department inspects pool barriers during construction, remodels, and property transfers. The city provides a pool barrier inspection checklist. Given Tempe's warm climate, swimming pools are extremely common, making barrier compliance a priority safety issue. Green pools (unmaintained, mosquito-breeding) are also a code violation enforced by Tempe.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant pool barriers are serious safety violations with fines, mandatory correction orders, and potential liability under ARS 36-1681.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tempe's pool fence requirements?
Is my pool inspected when I sell my home?
What is a green pool violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tempe
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