Georgia Pool Fence Code

Think your backyard pool is ready for summer? Georgia law might disagree. 

Most pool owners are unaware that something as simple as a missing latch or a lower fence could lead to legal trouble, or worse, an unpreventable accident. The Georgia pool fence code isn’t just a set of recommendations, but a mandatory safety standard designed to protect lives, especially children under the age of five, who face the highest drowning risk in the state.

Here, we’ll walk you through the exact pool fence requirements Georgia mandates, and explain why it’s important to always check with your local City Hall Zoning Dept. If you want a peace of mind, full legal compliance, and a safer backyard, this is where you start.

Georgia Pool Fence Code: What the Law Requires

Georgia state law mandates specific standards for residential and public enclosures as outlined in Chapter 511- 3- 5 of the Rules and Regulation of the State of Georgia. Here, we’ll only focus on the standards regarding residential enclosures. Any pool deeper than 24 inches requires a code-compliant fence. Here’s a breakdown of what the pool fence code in Georgia requires: 

• A minimum fence height of at least 48 inches from the ground to the top of the barrier
• Self-latching, self-closing gates that open outward, away from the pool area
• A latch release mechanism that’s placed at least 54 inches from the ground
• Openings should not allow a 4 inch sphere to pass through 
• The clearance from the ground should not be more than 4 inches

Pool Fence Minimum Height

The Georgia pool fence code clearly mandates that any pool deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a barrier completely surrounding the pool that is at least 48 inches tall, measured on the side of the barrier which faces away from the swimming pool. This isn’t just a suggestion. It’s a legal requirement intended to prevent unsupervised access, particularly by small children who are at the highest risk of drowning.

Should the fence exceed the minimum requirement, such as 54, 58, and 70 inches, you’ll likely have to get zoning permits.

Pool Gate Requirements

Even the tallest fence won’t keep your pool area secure if the gate doesn’t meet code. Under the Georgia pool fence code, gates play a critical role in safety, as they serve as the primary access to the pool.

To meet Georgia pool fence requirements, every gate providing access to a pool must adhere to the following legal standards:

• Self-Closing- the gate must automatically swing shut on its own after being opened–no exceptions. This prevents situations where a gate is accidentally left open.
• Self-Latching- a self-latching mechanism ensures the gate locks every time it closes, keeping unsupervised children from slipping in unnoticed.
• Outward Opening- the gate must open away from the pool, not toward it. This adds a second layer of protection, especially in cases where someone might lean or fall against the gate.
• Latch Height- the release mechanism must be mounted at least 54 inches above the ground. This keeps it well out of reach of small children, drastically reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.

In case the latching mechanism is located less than 54 inches from the bottom of the gate then the release mechanism shall be:

• Located on the pool side of the gate at at least three inches below the top of the gate
• The openings located within eighteen inches of the release mechanism shall be less than one and half inch
• Mechanisms should be controlled by a card reader, key entry device, keypad, or you could go with a MagnaLatch latch that uses magnetic locking technology keeping the gate secured at all times.

By enforcing automatic closure and high latch placement, these rules keep gates from being left open and help stop children from entering the pool area unsupervised.

Pool Fence Clearance and Spacing Requirements

Even the smallest gap in your fence can become a serious safety hazard. That’s why the Georgia pool fence code sets strict limits on how wide the spaces between pickets, panels, and under the fence can be. These rules are in place to prevent children from squeezing through, crawling under, or using footholds to climb over the barrier.

Clearance requirements

Here’s what you need to meet compliance:

• The maximum vertical clearance from the bottom of the ground to the fence should be four inches when measured from the side of the barrier facing away from the swimming pool. If the ground is loose, like gravel or mulch, the maximum is 2 inches to account for shifting surfaces.
• The vertical clearance for non-solid barriers should not exceed 2 inches.

Spacing requirements

The state of Georgia requires that any opening for a pool fence be less than 4 inches wide. Should a 4-inch sphere pass through the gap, your fence will be deemed incompliant with Georgia pool fence code. Solid barriers that don’t have openings are not allowed to have protrusions to prevent children from climbing. 

If your pool barrier includes horizontal and vertical slats, specific spacing rules apply. When the distance between horizontal members is 45 inches or more, the spacing between vertical slats must not exceed 4 inches. However, if the horizontal members are less than 45 inches apart, they must be placed on the pool side of the fence to prevent them from being used as a climbing aid. Additionally, if your fence includes decorative cutouts or ornamental designs, those openings must be no wider than 1¾ inches to meet Georgia’s pool fence code.

If your residential pool is enclosed by a chain link fence, the maximum mesh size must not exceed 1¾ inches. However, if the fence includes slats that are securely fastened at the top or bottom, it may be permitted even if the openings are slightly larger. Chain link fences that do not meet this requirement are not allowed to serve as a compliant pool barrier under the Georgia pool fence code. The same applies for a barrier composed of diagonal members. 

County-Level Pool Fence Requirements

Pool Fence Requirements in Fulton County

Fulton County enforces stricter pool fencing laws than the Georgia state minimum pool fence requirements. All cities, including Atlanta, should follow the specific barrier rules for residential pools before final approval.

If you are looking for a safe and reliable pool fence in Atlanta specifically, it’s time to explore professional pool fence installation and top-rated pool fence installers in Atlanta  to secure your home today.

Pool Fence Requirements in Jackson County

Jackson County pool fence requirements adhere closely to the Georgia state pool fence code and may require fence details at the time of permit application.

Pool Fence Requirements in Cobb County

Cobb County, home to Marrietafollows the 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code  as the foundation for pool safety, including strict fencing standards for all new residential pools. Permits and inspections are required for most installations.

Need a legal pool fence in Marietta? Work with expert pool fence installers in Marrieta who understand local code and can help you pass inspection the first time.

Pool Fence Requirements in Chatham County (Including Savannah)

Chatham County, home to the largest city in county- Savannah, follows Georgia’s state-mandated pool fence laws as outlined in Chapter 511-3-5. Local enforcement ensures that residential pools meet all barrier safety requirements, especially in areas with high foot traffic or family housing. Permits are typically required before installation, and inspections confirm code compliance.

Need a code-compliant pool fence in Savannah? Trust local experts who know Chatham County regulations inside and out. Get your pool protected and fully legal in Savannah today.

Why Compliance Matters: Safety and Liability

Installing a pool fence isn’t just about checking off a box, it’s about protecting lives and avoiding serious legal consequences. In Georgia, the key to preventing drowning is having a compliant pool fence. Failure to comply with the pool fence code can expose homeowners to fines, insurance complications, and even personal injury lawsuits in the event of an accident.

Drowning Statistics in Georgia

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for children under five in all U.S including Georgia. According to the CDC, hundreds of children die or are injured in pool-related incidents each year, with a significant portion happening in residential settings without proper fencing. In fact, Georgia has consistently ranked among the top 10 states for child drownings involving unsecured or improperly fenced pools.

Legal & Financial Risks of Non-Compliance

• Fines from local code enforcement for improper pool fencing
  
• Lawsuits for wrongful death or injury due to inadequate barriers
  
• Insurance claim denials if your property doesn’t meet local safety code
  
• Permit failures or delays during home sales or renovations

FAQs

Do all Georgia counties require a pool fence?

Yes. While the Georgia pool fence code sets statewide minimum requirements, every county enforces them, and some, including Fulton County, have stricter standards. Always check with your local zoning department for specific rules.

Can you use your house as part of the pool barrier in Georgia?

Yes, but only under certain conditions. If a wall of your house forms part of the pool enclosure, any doors that access the pool must be equipped with an alarm, self-latching device or an ASTM compliant pool cover. This helps prevent unsupervised entry, especially by children.

Is a permit required to build a pool fence in Georgia?

In most counties, yes. Permits are required when installing a new fence for a pool or replacing an existing barrier. You’ll typically need to submit a site plan and schedule an inspection to ensure the installation meets code.

What’s the best pool fence material for Georgia weather?

Powder-coated aluminum, mesh, and vinyl are top choices due to their resistance to rust, humidity, and sun exposure. For budget-conscious homeowners, tightly woven chain link with slats is also code-compliant and durable.

Is a 3-foot fence legal around a Georgia pool?

No. The minimum required height under Georgia pool fence code is 4 feet (48 inches). Anything shorter is not compliant and could lead to inspection failure or fines.

Conclusion

Georgia’s pool fence code isn’t just a formality, it’s a lifesaving legal requirement. Whether you live in Atlanta, Savannah, or a quieter part of the state, understanding and complying with these rules ensures your pool is safe, secure, and fully legal. With drowning still one of the leading causes of accidental death for children under five, having a compliant pool barrier is one of the most important decisions you can make as a homeowner.

If you’re planning to install a pool or upgrade your fence, make sure you’re not only meeting code, but exceeding it. For expert installation or a code-compliance assessment in your county, contact Pool Guard™, a trusted Georgia pool fence professional today.