Fairfax County, VA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

All outdoor pool areas shall be completely enclosed with a perimeter fence, or equivalent barrier, at least six feet in height, measured from the highest ground elevation within three feet adjacent to the outside of the barrier. If horizontal surfaces are used, top planes must be separated by a vertical distance that is no less than 45 inches and shall prohibit the passage of a sphere larger than 1¾ inches in diameter through any opening in or under the fence or barrier. The fence or barrier shall be non-climbable from the outside of the enclosure. Non-climbable shall mean no handholds, footholds, horizontal members, or other features that are available, which would aid in climbing the fence from outside of the barrier. There shall be no objects within a six-foot arc from the top of the perimeter fence or barrier and no closer than three feet to any part of the fence or barrier. The material used to construct the fence or barrier shall be approved by the Director. If the fence or barrier does not have horizontal surfaces, it shall be constructed so as to prohibit the passage of a sphere larger than four inches in diameter through any opening in or under the fence or barrier. Access gates installed in the perimeter fence or barrier shall have latches and locks at least 48 inches above the deck or ground surface.