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

California's Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code 115920-115929) was substantially amended by AB 3303 in 2017 and AB 2873 in 2018 to require at least two of seven safety features rather than one. As adopted in Vacaville under VMC Title 15 (California Building Code 3109), the seven options are: (1) an isolation barrier separating the pool from the home, (2) an approved removable mesh fence (ASTM F 2286) meeting CBC 3109.4.1.2, (3) an approved pool safety cover (ASTM F 1346), (4) exit alarms on doors with direct pool access (CBC 3109.4.4.5), (5) self-closing/self-latching devices on doors with direct access (CBC 3109.4.1.7), (6) a swimming pool alarm meeting ASTM F 2208 detecting unauthorized entry, or (7) other means of protection providing equivalent safety. The isolation barrier specifications: minimum 60-inch height measured from grade on the side away from the pool; maximum 2-inch bottom clearance over earth or grass, 4 inches over a hard impervious surface; openings cannot permit a 4-inch sphere; gates must open outward, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch at least 54 inches above ground. Above-ground pool walls 60 inches or more may serve as the barrier with a lockable/removable ladder. Pool covers must meet ASTM F 1346 and bear a permanent label. VMC 14.09.200 separately requires pools to be set back at least 3 feet from any side or rear property line.