Upland, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Upland does not run a separate local pool-fence ordinance; it enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health and Safety Code Sections 115920-115929) and the California Residential Code (Appendix AX) it adopts under Title 15. Whenever a building permit is issued for a new pool or spa, the property must be equipped with at least one of the seven approved drowning-prevention safety features. Where an enclosure (isolation fence) is used as that feature, the state standards control: the barrier must be a minimum of 60 inches high measured from the outside, have no more than a 2-inch gap at the bottom, contain no openings that allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through, and present no external footholds that would help a child climb it. Gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing with a self-latching device. Alternatives the state allows in place of a fence include ASTM-compliant removable mesh fencing, an approved safety pool cover, door and pool alarms, or self-closing/self-latching doors with the release at least 54 inches above the floor. Because these are state-mandated minimums, Upland's plan check and final inspection confirm compliance before a pool can be used. Property owners should verify current edition requirements with Building and Safety, since the code edition updates.