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If you own or plan to build a pool in Virginia, a compliant pool fence is not optional, it’s the law. The pool fence requirements in Virginia require barriers around residential pools to prevent accidental drownings and unauthorized access. The regulations vary slightly by county, but statewide standards give clear rules about fence height, gate function, and materials.
Installing a fence that doesn’t meet the requirements can result in code violations, failed inspections, or worse, a safety hazard.
Whether you’re building a new pool or updating an existing one, this 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know about legal and safe pool fencing in Virginia.
The primary authority for pool fence regulations in Virginia is the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC). All residential pool enclosures must meet the barrier requirements outlined in this code.Â
Virginia’s USBC adopts the 2021 edition of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), specifically Section 305, which covers barrier requirements. This ensures Virginia’s standards align with nationally recognized safety practices.
While the USBC applies statewide, local enforcement may vary. Cities and counties like Fairfax County, Virginia Beach, and Richmond may have additional permitting rules or inspection protocols. Always check with your local building office before installation.
These standards are carefully designed to reduce unauthorized or accidental pool access, especially by children under five. Following these requirements ensures both safety and code compliance across Virginia.
Permits are required for all new pool fence installations. The county enforces ISPSC 2021 and performs final inspections for height, latch operation, and barrier placement.
These are all the necessary requirements you’ll need if you want to install a new pool in Fairfax County.
| Requirement | Standard |
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Minimum Fence Height | 48 inches |
| Gate Requirements | Self-closing, self-latching |
| Latch Height | 54 inches above ground |
| Inspection Included | Yes, including latch function and gate swing |
| Notes | Site plan and zoning compliance may be reviewed |
Louisa County requires permits for pool barriers to meet state code. Inspections are scheduled upon project completion and include checks for clearance, latch height, and proximity hazards. Lousia County requires for each pool fence to have:Â
| Requirement | Standard |
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Minimum Fence Height | 48 inches measured from the outside face of the barrier |
| Gate Requirements | Self-closing, self-latching and open outward away from the pool |
| Latch Height | Typically 54 inches above ground. If located less than 54 inches from the bottom of the gate the latch must be placed on the pool side at least 3 inches from the top of the gate. |
| Inspection Included | Yes |
| Notes | Contact local building department for permit forms |
A door or window may serve as part of the barrier only if it has a pool UL2017 compliant alarm with a mechanism to deactivate placed at 54 inches above the door threshold, sounds immediately and continuously for 30 seconds, must be heard through the house and must reset automatically.
York County has applied ISPSC 2021 standards in their local swimming pool regulations for all pool enclosures. Inspection is mandatory and includes full code compliance review.
| Requirement | Standard |
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Minimum Fence Height | At least 48 inches above finished grade |
| Gate Requirements | Must be self-closing, self-latching and open outward |
| Latch Height | Minimum of 54 inches from ground level |
| Inspection Included | Required prior to or after installation |
| Notes | Check with the county’s planning department for permit applications |
Yes, but only if all doors leading to the pool are equipped with UL 2017-compliant alarms or self-latching mechanisms. Otherwise, the wall must not be counted as part of the enclosure.
Usually, yes. If the replacement changes the height, material, or layout, you will need a new permit. Minor repairs often don’t require one.
Yes removable fences may be allowed in Virginia, if they meet the height, latch, and spacing requirements and are installed securely enough to pass inspection.
Penalties vary by city but may include stop-work orders, fines, or being required to remove and rebuild the fence to code. More importantly, non-compliance increases the risk of accidents and insurance issues.
Understanding and following pool fence requirements in Virginia isn’t just about passing inspections, it’s about protecting the people you care about most. Every regulation, from fence height to latch placement, is there to prevent accidents before they happen.
At Pool Guard, we make compliance simple. Our fences are built to meet statewide and local Maryland codes, including Montgomery County’s strict standards and Prince George’s County’s inspection process. We provide free estimates, ASTM-compliant removable mesh fencing, professionally installed gates and alarms.
Pool Guard USA is a US-based pool safety equipment manufacturer specializing in pool fences, pool covers, pool safety nets along with installation services throughout the United States.
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Please fill out the form below with your information. Your local dealer will be notified about your inquiry.
