Yakima, WA Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum barrier height
- 48 inches above ground
- Trigger depth
- water deeper than 24 inches
- Gate requirement
- self-closing, self-latching
- Exemption
- ASTM F1346 safety cover
Summary
Yakima requires any private pool, hot tub, or spa deeper than 24 inches to be enclosed by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches tall, with gates that close and latch themselves automatically.
Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than 24 inches (610mm) in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier not less than 48 inches (1219mm) in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be self-closing and self-latching.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4980636; v1 updated 2026-08-03; through 08-03-2026).
Full Breakdown
The city's property maintenance code amendment to IPMC Section 303.2 requires a 48-inch barrier around any private pool, hot tub, or spa over 24 inches deep, measured from the ground on the outside of the barrier. Gates must self-close and self-latch, with the release mechanism on the pool side if it sits below 54 inches. An existing enclosure or safety cover cannot be removed, replaced, or altered in a way that weakens it as a safety barrier. Pools, spas, or hot tubs with an ASTM F1346-compliant safety cover are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Yakima's code official enforces this through a written notice of violation and correction order; noncompliance can lead to prosecution under YMC § 11.40.106.4 and cost recovery for city-ordered corrective action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my above-ground pool need a fence in Yakima?
How high must a Yakima pool fence be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima
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