Westminster, CO Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

4, a wall of a dwelling or other structure may count as part of a pool or spa barrier, but only where any door, gate or window that gives direct access to the pool through that wall meets one of three fixed options. First, operable windows with a sill under 48 inches, doors and gates can be fitted with a listed water-hazard entrance alarm (UL 2017) that sounds when the opening or its screen is used; the code even fixes where the alarm's deactivation switch must sit, between 48 and 54 inches above the floor depending on the type of unit.

Second, the pool or spa can instead be covered by a safety cover listed to ASTM F1346. Third, the code allows "an approved means of protection, such as self-closing doors with self-latching devices," but only if that protection is not less effective than the alarm or the safety cover option. The same section, § 11-9-12(C), requires pool decks to be built to the International Residential Code or International Building Code, and § 11-9-12(D) adds a local chemical-storage rule requiring pool chemicals to be stored, used and handled in compliance with the City's Building and Fire Codes.

Sections 322 and 323 of the model code are deleted outright by § 11-9-12(F), meaning any state-model language in those sections does not apply inside city limits. 4 options will not pass the pool inspection needed for a certificate of occupancy or final sign-off on new pool construction.