Homeowners with pools in California must adhere to specific regulations to ensure certain requirements are met. The new 2018 California pool fence code is called SB442 and can be found here. The code states that:
Any property with a pool in California must have a property fence that is at least 5’ tall, measured from the opposite side of the pool. It must also have a self-closing, self-latching pool safety gate and no RV access gates. If there are automatic driveway gates, it must open and close within 20 seconds. The property fence cannot be more than 2” from the ground, and gaps between the fence must be less than 4”.
The outside surface of the fence must be free of any protrusions, cavities, or other physical characteristics that can serve as handholds or footholds that would enable a child younger than the age of five years to climb over the fence.
This must be adhered by all new or remodeled pools where permits are required. A homeowner may also have to bring the pool up to date if they have done any work on the house where permits are required especially if their property fence doesn’t already meet the 5’ requirement. Additionally, when a house is sold, it is noted in the home inspection report which required safety measures are in place and whether the property fence meets the 5’ requirement. The buyer of the home is allowed to request that the swimming pool be brought up to code prior to closing on escrow.
With the 2018 code, there is a requirement for two additional layers of protection to be in place in addition to the 5’ property fence. These additional layers of protection can be a 4’ tall removable mesh pool fence that meets ASTM F-2286 standards. The mesh fence must have a self-closing, self-latching gate that is lockable with a key. Furthermore, the fence must be at least 20” away from the pool’s edges.
Additionally, an approved pool alarm can be installed inside the pool, as well as an approved safety cover. You can install a pool enclosure that isolates the pool from the backyard or install a self-closing, self-latching device with a release mechanism that is placed no lower than 54” above the ground on any doors that provide direct access to the swimming pool or spa. You can also install door alarms on any door leading out to the backyard.
If the home’s property fence is not 5’ tall or doesn’t meet the above requirements, a homeowner can install a mesh pool fence to meet that requirement. This mesh pool fence will also serve to meet one of the two extra layers of protection.
At Kings Pool Fencing, we are experts when it comes to pool safety and installing removable mesh pool fences. With us, you will get the highest quality mesh pool fence available, which means you can trust that your fence will meet California safety regulations.
Let us help you secure your swimming pool. Call (877) 521-5569 or contact us online for your FREE onsite estimate.
