When a building permit is issued for a new pool or spa at a single-family home, or for remodeling one, California's Swimming Pool Safety Act requires at least two of seven drowning prevention features. One of them is an enclosure: at least 60 inches tall, no gap that a 4-inch sphere can pass, and gates that open away from the pool and close and latch on their own.
What are the seven features?
California Health and Safety Code section 115922 lists them, as of November 2026:
- An enclosure meeting section 115923 that isolates the pool from the home.
- Removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286, with a self-closing, self-latching gate that can be locked.
- A safety pool cover meeting ASTM F1346.
- Exit alarms on doors with direct access to the pool.
- Self-closing, self-latching devices on those doors, released no lower than 54 inches above the floor.
- A pool alarm meeting ASTM F2208. Wearable alarms do not count.
- Other means at least as protective, independently verified.
What makes an enclosure qualify?
- At least 60 inches high.
- No more than 2 inches between the bottom of the fence and the ground.
- No opening a 4-inch sphere could pass through.
- No outside footholds, handholds or protrusions a young child could use to climb.
- Gates that open away from the pool, close on their own and latch at least 60 inches above the ground.
Does it apply to a pool I already have?
The state requirement is triggered by a permit for a new pool or a remodel. It is still a sound standard for any pool children may visit, and the local building code can add rules of its own.
What about Irvine?
Irvine permits and inspects pool barriers through its building division. If the barrier shows from the street or a common area, your association may review it too. See pool fences in Irvine.
Sources, as of November 2026: California Health and Safety Code sections 115920 to 115929. General information, not legal advice.
Updated November 2026