What does California require for a pool fence?
California's Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health and Safety Code section 115923) describes a qualifying pool enclosure. It must:
- Be at least 60 inches tall.
- Leave no more than 2 inches between the ground and the bottom of the fence.
- Have no gaps that a 4-inch sphere can pass through.
- Have a smooth outside with no handholds or footholds a child under five could climb.
- Have gates that swing away from the pool, close on their own and latch on their own, with the latch at least 60 inches above the ground.
These are the state's baseline. Your city's building inspectors may look at more when a new pool is permitted, so we confirm the rules for your address before we build.
What materials work best for a pool fence?
Aluminum is the most common pick. It doesn't rust, it's easy to keep gaps under 4 inches and you can see the pool through it. Steel works too, with a good finish. Some vinyl styles can work if the design leaves no climbable rails on the outside. See iron and aluminum fences and vinyl fences.
Why does the gate matter so much?
The gate is where most pool barriers fail: a spring wears out, a latch stops catching, someone props it open. We fit self-closing hinges and a high latch, and we test that the gate shuts and latches from any open position before we leave. More on gates.
Can my existing backyard fence count as the pool barrier?
It depends. If it meets the height, gap and climbability rules and every gate into the pool area self-closes and self-latches, it may. Horizontal rails on the outside of a wood fence are a common problem, because kids can climb them. We'll walk the line with you and point out what needs to change.
What does a pool fence cost?
As of October 2026, Angi's national cost guide lists aluminum fencing at about $17 to $90 per linear foot installed. Pool fences need self-closing gate hardware on top of that. We measure the pool area and give you a written price. See fence costs in Long Beach.