Vacaville, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- H&S Code 115921; CBC 3109
- Required Options
- 2 of 7
- Barrier Height
- 60 in / 5 ft minimum
- Gate Latch
- 54 in above grade
- Opening
- Max 4 in sphere
- Property Setback
- 3 ft (VMC 14.09.200)
Summary
Vacaville requires every new or substantially remodeled pool or spa to incorporate at least two of seven Pool Safety Act features under Health & Safety Code 115922, one of which is typically an isolation barrier under CBC 3109.4. The barrier must be at least 60 inches tall, with a gate latch at least 54 inches above the ground, and openings no more than 4 inches.
115923. An enclosure shall have all of the following characteristics: (a) 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. (b) A minimum height of 60 inches. (c) A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches. (d) Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four inches in diameter. (e) An outside surface free of protrusions, cavities, or other physical characteristics that would serve as handholds or footholds that could enable a child below the age of five years to climb over.
Full Breakdown
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. 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. 200 separately requires pools to be set back at least 3 feet from any side or rear property line.
Violations & Fines
Failure to install required Pool Safety Act features violates Health & Safety Code 115921 et seq. and California Building Code 3109. Vacaville Building Division can deny final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy. Removal of the barrier after issuance violates the as-built permit. Drowning at a non-compliant pool exposes the owner to civil wrongful-death liability under Civil Code 1714, possible Penal Code 273a (child endangerment) prosecution, and likely homeowner-insurance claim denial. Administrative citations under VMC Title 8 Chapter 8.10 begin at $100 and escalate per day uncured.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pool fence height does Vacaville require?
Can I use my home's wall as a pool barrier?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Vacaville
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