Winnebago County, IL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum fence height
- 4 feet around in-ground pools
- Setback from lot line
- 6 feet minimum
- Electrical clearance
- Pools barred over or under lines
- Governing rule
- UDO § 18.3.16 + Building Code
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Winnebago County pools
Summary
Winnebago County requires a fence or wall at least four feet high around every in-ground swimming pool in unincorporated areas, keeps pools clear of overhead electrical lines, and sets a six-foot minimum setback from any lot line.
All swimming pools shall comply with the requirements of the Building Code. However, in-ground swimming pools shall be enclosed by a fence or wall that is a minimum of four (4) feet in height. Swimming pools shall not be located over or under electrical lines and shall be a minimum of six (6) feet from any lot line.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 64).
Full Breakdown
Under the county's Unified Development Ordinance, every swimming pool in unincorporated Winnebago County must meet the Building Code, and any in-ground pool needs a fence or wall at least four feet tall to prevent unsupervised access. Pools can't sit over or under electrical lines and must stay at least six feet from every lot line. The rule covers residential pools countywide, and the planning and zoning division checks pool placement and enclosure compliance during the building permit review before installation can proceed.
Violations & Fines
Building or maintaining an unfenced in-ground pool, or placing one within six feet of a lot line, violates the UDO and can draw a stop-work order, fines, and a mandatory retrofit before use is allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Winnebago County require a fence around my pool?
How close can a pool be to my property line?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Winnebago County
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