When do I need a pool fence during a pool installation? Frederick Fence Company frequently installs fences in conjunction with new swimming pool projects. We want to be a helpful resource to our readers; to provide some tips on the new pool fencing installation process from a fencing perspective.
Which comes first?
In the instance of a pool installation project, you have a few options to choose from concerning the specific timeline of events. MOST importantly, the new pool fence needs to be in and secured with properly functioning pool code accessories by the time the water goes in! As long as that rule is followed, you have the option to install the fence A) before the construction of the pool in its entirety or B) after most of the pool work is completed, bar filling the pool with water.
If your pool/fence design has the fence installed either close to or directly placed on top of the concrete/pavers surrounding the pool, then we insist on waiting to install the fence until the pool is in. If the fence will surround the entire yard, leaving ample space around the pool, then it is fine to install the fence first. BUT, it is very helpful to leave about 20’ or more of the fence uninstalled to provide room for the pool company’s equipment to pass through easily. Have your fence company return and install the rest once the pool is complete, but before the water is placed.
New pool Fence inspections happen with the pool permit
Depending on where you are located, permits and inspections related to fencing might not be necessary. However, a pool will almost always need to be permitted and inspected once completed. The surrounding fence will be inspected along with it. Permits and inspections are required for new residential pools because pool safety is concerning to and is regulated by our local county governments. The goal is to ensure that pools are not a danger to anyone, including young children who may happen to be unattended. Your fence will be inspected to confirm that it renders the pool inaccessible to those at risk of drowning.
which fences are pool code compliant?
Any fence that adheres to the regulations concerning the following items is considered pool code compliant. . . even split rail!
Height– A County may require a minimum height of 4’ or 5’ tall in order to be considered pool code compliant.
Grade– The gap between the ground and the bottom of the fence is to be no
more than 4” tall under most county pool code regulations.
Opening size– The boards or mesh on the entirety of the fence must be under a certain size as well. This could be 4” or even 2”.
Gate hardware– All counties require the gates on pool fences to be self-closing and lockable. Some exceptions exist when there is more than one gate. One gate (labeled as the utility gate) may be kept locked, while the other gate is simply self-closing.
Material– Fence material is not important as long as the other rules are followed. Paddock and Split rail fences must include exterior wire mesh in order to be compliant. Aluminum, vinyl, and wood picket fences are easily constructed to be pool code compliant.
Can my existing fence be converted into a pool code compliant fence?
To determine the answer to this question, check county pool code regulations against your current fence. Most likely, the fence can be made pool code compliant with the simple addition of wire and some new gate hardware. A free consultation from Frederick Fence can quickly determine how to most cost effectively transform your fence into a pool fence.
How to make sure your new pool fence is pool code compliant
You can choose to rely on your professional fence contractor to know and follow the pool codes for your area. Just make sure there is verbiage on the contract specifying “the fence will be pool code compliant.” A good fencing company will stand behind these words and rectify any issues that have caused a failed inspection post installation.
You can also do the research yourself. Look for the pool code fence regulations on your county’s website. Finding the most up-to-date information can be tricky, so feel free to the county office and ask for help or clarification if you are having trouble discerning the information.
Our experienced sales team is ready to price up your new pool fence! Call 301-663-4000 to schedule a free estimate appointment on new pool fencing.
Written by Laura Braden, 5-year Frederick Fence Co. employee
Frederick Fence Company has over 40 years of experience installing fences of all shapes and sizes! We are the fencing contractor you can trust!
