Orange County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- County Ordinance
- OC Ordinance No. 19-006
- Primary Barrier
- 60 inches (5 feet) minimum
- Gate Latch Height
- 60 inches minimum
- Water Depth Trigger
- Over 18 inches
- Secondary Barrier
- Required (4 options)
Summary
Orange County enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code §115920-115929) and adopted Ordinance No. 19-006 requiring both primary and secondary pool barriers for all residential pools in unincorporated areas with water depth exceeding 18 inches.
The Swimming Pool Safety Act [115920 - 115929] ( Article 2.5 added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 925, Sec. 3.5. ) 115920. This act shall be known and may be cited as the Swimming Pool Safety Act.
(Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 925, Sec. 3.5. Effective January 1, 1997.)
Full Breakdown
Under the California Swimming Pool Safety Act and Orange County Ordinance No. 19-006, all residential swimming pools and spas with water depth greater than 18 inches require pool barriers. The primary barrier (fence or wall) must be at least 60 inches (5 feet) high with no gaps exceeding 4 inches and no more than a 2-inch gap at the bottom. Gates must open away from the pool, be self-closing, and have a self-latching mechanism at least 60 inches above grade. The secondary barrier must consist of one of: a removable mesh fence at least 20 inches from the water edge with a self-closing, self-latching, key-lockable gate; an approved safety pool cover; a pool alarm; or other means providing equal or greater protection as approved by the Building Official.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant pool barriers may result in failure of building inspection, stop-work orders on pool projects, and code enforcement citations. Pool barrier violations are treated as safety hazards requiring immediate correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pool fencing is required in unincorporated Orange County?
Does my existing pool need to meet the new barrier requirements?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Orange County
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