Pool Fencing Laws

Having a cozy swimming pool is a dream of most of the homeowners. It gives a sense of richness and sophistication to the owner. Apart from swimming, and a great place to hang out (of the water) for various other occasions like poolside parties. Whatever the usage of a swimming pool, having pool fencing is a must job for you. It is an important task not only to abide by the laws, but also to show concern towards water safety of you and your family members. There are various safety regulations that are enforced by the local governing bodies of various particular regions that you need to follow in order to make the swimming pool even more useful!

Laws and Regulations

Even though there is no definitive Federal Law of United States regarding summing pool fencing, there are a few important state government like the states of Arizona, California and Florida which have their own swimming pool safety rules for fencing. There is also a model pool barrier code for residential pools, hot tubs and spas. This barrier code is approved by the American National Standards Institute. As far as other countries are concerned, countries like Australia and New Zealand have some strict rule for swimming pool fencing that you need to follow.

Type of the Pool
Pool fencing laws differ for different types of swimming pools. For example, if it is an indoor swimming pool, then you need to make sure that it is separate from the other household access with a solid barrier. This barrier can be made of a wall. If it is an above ground swimming pool, then it becomes quite easy for you to follow the swimming pool safety rules, since the pool is already hard to access for children due to its elevated location. Here are some of the general rules and pool fence regulations for a swimming pool that you need to check with your local authorities.

Height of the Fence
First and foremost, the aspect to check is the height of the swimming pool fencing. You need to make sure that the fencing options that you use are reaching up the minimum height of 5 feet. You should also need to make sure that the gaps and holes in the fencing design are not bigger than 1 ⅓ inches. In case you opt for chain link fence, then make sure that it has a minimum gauge of 11 or in the range of 14 to 16. You need to make sure that the fencing design that you choose for the swimming pool, nowhere provides supports to a child to climb up the fence.

Gates for the Fence
One of the important laws for safety state that you need to give special attention to the fencing gates. You need to install a gate that has self closing and locking mechanism. If you are planning to install a latch to the gate, then make sure that it is located at least 5 feet above the ground level, so that I can be out of reach for children. You can also install security alarm at the gate, so that you can avoid unauthorized entry through the gate. You need to make sure that the fencing as well as the gate has at least 20 inches distance from the pool.

Other Considerations
There are various types of swimming pool fencing like wooden, glass, iron, mesh, aluminum, tubular steel, chain link, vinyl, etc., from which you can select the best one that fits in your budget as well as your landscape designing. In order to abide by the laws for fencing for the safety of you as well as your family, you need to opt for fencing of some sorts. In case you think that the fencing is looking out of place with your landscaping, then you can also opt for swimming pool safety covers that are available in the market. While doing so, you need to make sure that you are not breaching any rules that are set by the local authorities in your area!

Always consult with local authorities in your area, prior to installing the swimming pool. This way you can always stay out of any legal issues and can ensure utmost safety of your loved ones!