Wichita, KS Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Pool barriers in Wichita must comply with the Kansas Residential Building Code, which incorporates IRC Appendix V Swimming Pool Safety. Any pool, hot tub, or spa with water depth greater than 24 inches must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the exterior side of the barrier. Vertical fence members must be spaced no more than 4 inches apart, and horizontal members on the climb side cannot be spaced less than 45 inches apart unless the openings are reduced. Chain-link mesh openings cannot exceed 1.75 inches. Gates must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release mechanism at least 54 inches above the ground when located on the pool side of the gate, or 3 inches below the top with no openings within 18 inches if mounted otherwise. Where a wall of the dwelling forms part of the barrier, all doors leading from the house to the pool area must be equipped with an audible alarm sounding within 7 seconds of opening, OR the pool itself must have an approved safety cover meeting ASTM F1346, OR self-closing self-latching doors with the latch 54 inches up. Above-ground pools may use removable or lockable ladders to satisfy the barrier requirement. Mesh removable barriers are accepted if they meet ASTM F2286.