Sacramento, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

Sacramento City Code 9.16.090 requires every swimming pool and spa to be enclosed by a fence that prevents access from outside the building. Gates must be self-latching with the latching device inaccessible from the outside, keeping the gate closed and latched at all times. For private single-family residential pools, the barrier must be at least 60 inches above grade on the side facing away from the pool. Maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barrier is 2 inches over soil, increased to 4 inches over a solid surface such as concrete deck. Openings cannot allow passage of a 1.75-inch sphere; if vertical spacing between openings is 45 inches or more, openings up to a 4-inch sphere are allowed. Chain-link fences used as the barrier must be no lighter than 11 gauge. Decorative work on the pool-side-away face that creates handholds or footholds is prohibited. When a permit is issued for a new or remodeled pool or spa at a single-family home, California Health and Safety Code 115922 (the Pool Safety Act) requires at least two of seven drowning prevention features: an isolation enclosure meeting HSC 115923; removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286 with a self-closing/self-latching key-lockable gate; an approved safety pool cover meeting ASTM F1346 (HSC 115921(d)); exit alarms on doors providing direct pool access (UL 2017); a self-closing/self-latching device on doors with the release at least 54 inches above the floor; a pool alarm meeting ASTM F2208 that detects unauthorized water entry; or other ASTM/ASME-verified protection of equal or greater effectiveness. Pools 18 inches deep or greater are regulated.