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Thinking of installing or updating an older barrier? Michigan’s pool fence code is the place to start.
In Michigan, where summer memories are made in backyard pools, safety isn’t just a box to check, it’s a responsibility. Every pool owner hopes for carefree fun, but without the right barrier in place, that fun can come with serious risks. That’s why the Michigan pool fence code is not just a mere recommendation, but a mandatory safety standard to protect your loved ones.
This guide breaks down exactly what the Michigan pool fence regulations require; clearly, simply, and city by city so you and your loved ones can swim without worry.
If you’re a pool owner in Michigan, you’re required by law to follow specific guidelines for fencing, barriers, and gates. These rules are in place to prevent accidental drownings, especially among children under 5, the most vulnerable age group when it comes to pool-related incidents.
Michigan adopts its building regulations through the Michigan Residential Code (MRC), which is modeled on the International Residential Code (IRC) and its Appendix G, a section that specifically covers barrier requirements for residential swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.
This includes:
Under the Michigan Residential Code, your pool fence must stand at a minimum of 48 inches (4 feet) tall, measured from the outside ground level. That’s not just a suggestion, it’s a legal threshold designed to keep young children from climbing over and wandering into danger.
This height requirement applies whether your fence is ornamental iron, removable mesh, or other pool fence material. Even if your fence looks secure, anything under 4 feet is a red flag to inspectors, and a risk to little ones.
To comply with Michigan code, the space between the bottom of your pool fence and the ground must not exceed 2 inches measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the swimming pool. This rule helps stop children, or even pets, from crawling under the barrier unnoticed.
This applies to all surfaces. Grass, mulch, or soil? Ensure the fence doesn’t shift over time and create larger gaps.
Concrete or pavers? Make sure the installation is precise and level. Anything less than two inches in ground clearance might not only cause you to fail an inspection, but it can cause an unforgettable accident.
In Michigan, pool fences must be constructed to prevent the passage of a sphere larger than 4 inches in diameter through any opening or under the fence. This standard is designed to prevent small children from squeezing through gaps in the fence.
Why 4 inches? This measurement approximates the size of a young child’s head. By ensuring that no opening in the fence allows a sphere of this size to pass through, the regulation aims to prevent children from slipping through the fence and accessing the pool unsupervised.
Where a barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical rails, and the horizontal rails are placed less than 45 inches apart, the spacing between vertical members should not exceed 1¾ inches. If the horizontal rails are located more than 54 inches from the bottom of the gate, the spacing between the vertical members shall not exceed 1 ¾ in width.Â
Decorative cutouts shall not exceed more than 1 ¾ inches in width. Chain lik fences shall not exceed 1 ¾ inches in width, unless the fence is provided with slats fastened at the top or bottom reducing the openings to not more than 1 ¾ inches in width.
Practical tip: Use a 4-inch diameter ball (like a tennis ball) to test the fence. If the ball can pass through any opening, the fence does not comply with the regulation.
Compliance with this rule is not just about adhering to regulations, it’s about ensuring the safety of children and providing peace of mind for pool owners.
According to the Michigan pool fence code, and as enforced in cities like Garden City, gate safety isn’t optional, it’s the cornerstone of an effective barrier system. Here’s what every homeowner needs to know to stay compliant and, more importantly, protect their family:
To meet code and keep your pool legally secure, every gate that leads to the pool area must:
The gate must also swing outward, away from the pool, so it can’t be forced open from inside the barrier.
As for the latch mechanism, Michigan rules require one of two approved configurations.
It must be mounted at least 54 inches above ground level, or if positioned lower than 54 inches it must be installed on the pool-facing side of the gate, at least 3 inches below the top rail, nd not within ½ inch of any opening for 18 inches surrounding the latch, making it unreachable from outside.
For long-term safety and code compliance, many Michigan homeowners trust MagnaLatch by Pool Guard, a self-latching, childproof system engineered to meet national safety standards and stand up to Michigan’s outdoor conditions year-round.
In Michigan, when a door or window from the house leads straight into the pool zone, there’s an extra layer of protection required by law. Even with a fence in place, state building codes, and many local ordinances, demand that these access points be equipped with audible alarms or that the pool be covered with an approved safety cover when not in use.
According to the Michigan Residential Code (based on IRC Appendix G):
This requirement applies whether the pool is in-ground or above-ground, and whether it’s accessed through a sliding door, back door, basement walkout, or ground-floor window.
While the City of Midland follows the statewide Michigan pool fence code, it has formally adopted these regulations into its local swimming pool ordinances, with added requirements specific to pool placement and spacing. According to local code:
The pool fence requirements as per the City of Midland code are as follows:Â
| Requirement | Midland Pool Fence Code |
| Fence Height | Minimum 48 inches (4 feet), measured from finished grade |
| Gate Standards | Gates must open outward, be self-closing, and self-latching, and meet the same height and opening requirements as a fence or barrier. |
| Latch Placement | Latch must be on the pool side and at least 3″ below the top of the gate |
| Gap Limitations | No opening shall allow the passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere |
In Novi, Michigan, residential swimming pools and spas must adhere to both the Michigan Residential Code and the 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). The city has implemented additional zoning and safety measures to ensure the well-being of its residents.
| Requirement | Novi Pool Fence Code |
| Fence Height | Minimum 48 inches (4 feet), measured from finished grade |
| Gate Standards | Gates must open outward, be self-closing, and self-latching with a latch placement over 54 inches above ground. |
| Latch Placement | If latch is less than 54 inches from ground, it must be on the pool side, at least 3 inches below the top, with no openings greater than ½ inch within 18 inches |
| Gap Limitations | Openings in the fence must not allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through |
Always ensure that your pool installation plans are reviewed and approved by the City of Novi’s Community Development Department to meet all local and state regulations.
In Wayne, Michigan, residential swimming pools must adhere to both the Michigan Residential Code and local ordinances. The city has implemented additional zoning and safety measures to ensure the well-being of its residents.
According to the City of Wayne’s Swimming Pool Regulations pools must be located at least 6 feet from all property lines and must not project into or over any easements.
Regdring the pool fence requirements, the City of Wayne requires:
| Requirement | Wayne Pool Fence Code |
| Fence Height | Minimum 48 inches (4 feet), measured from finished grade |
| Gate Standards | All access gates must swing away from the pool, and include self-closing, self-latching hardware to ensure consistent closure. |
| Latch Placement | If the gate latch is positioned below 54 inches, it must be placed on the pool-facing side, at least 3 inches beneath the top, with no openings larger than ½ inch within an 18-inch radius of the latch. |
| Gap Limitations | All gaps or spaces in the barrier must be small enough to block a 4-inch sphere from passing through. |
Worth noting is that a building permit is mandatory for all pools over 2 feet in depth. Always ensure that your pool installation plans are reviewed and approved by the City of Wayne’s Building and Engineering Department to meet all local and state regulations.
In Garden City, Michigan, residential swimming pools must adhere to both the Michigan Residential Code and local ordinances. The city has implemented additional zoning and safety measures to ensure the well-being of its residents.
According to the City of Garden City’s Swimming Pool Handout:
| Barrier Element | Garden City Pool Fence Regulations |
| Fence Height Minimum | Your pool barrier must rise at least 4 feet high from ground level to meet city standards. No exceptions, even for rear-yard enclosures. |
| Gate Standards | All access gates must swing outward from the pool, and feature automatic self-closing and self-latching hardware for security. |
| Latch Placement | If the latch is below 54″, it must be on the interior side of the gate, at least 3″ below the top rail, with no reachable openings within 18 inches. |
| Gap Limitations | Gaps or slats in the barrier must be small enough to prevent a 4-inch sphere from passing through, this includes between pickets and under the fence. |
Garden City inspectors are especially attentive to decorative elements and latch placements, so keep it simple, secure, and to spec.
Complying with the Michigan pool fence code isn’t just about checking off boxes during an inspection, it’s about protecting what matters most. From family safety to legal protection, here’s why doing it right pays off.
A properly installed fence creates a physical barrier between your pool and the rest of your property, preventing unsupervised access by toddlers, pets, or neighborhood children. This isn’t just about prevention, it’s about peace of mind every time someone opens the back door.
One moment of distraction can lead to tragedy. A compliant fence helps make sure that moment never happens.
Meeting Michigan’s code keeps you on the right side of city ordinances, homeowner association rules, and insurance policies. If there’s ever an incident or inspection, a fully compliant barrier can help shield you from:
With the right safety measures in place, you won’t need to hover near the edge every second. A secure fence, properly latched gate, and alarmed access points mean you can finally enjoy your pool, not stress over it.
Compliance gives you the freedom to relax and make memories, with fewer what-ifs hanging over your head.
Only if it meets all Michigan pool fence code standards, including height, spacing, gate hardware, and latch placement. If not, modifications will be required.
Yes, if your home opens directly into the pool area, alarms or an ASTM F1346-rated safety cover are required by law as an added protective measure.
You could face failed inspections, city fines, insurance issues, and potential legal liability, especially if someone gets hurt. The cost of compliance is minimal compared to the risks of ignoring it.
Yes, you absolutely can, and it’s fully code-compliant if installed correctly.
Removable pool fences are allowed under the Michigan pool fence code as long as they meet the same safety standards as permanent barriers. That includes:
No matter where you live in Michigan, your pool fence must meet both state and local regulations. The best way to ensure full compliance? Partner with a licensed contractor who understands both the Michigan pool fence code and your city’s specific requirements.
At Pool Guard, we design and install pool fencing that’s built to pass inspection—and built to protect your family.
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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