Oklahoma Pool Fence Law & Regulations

August 19, 2025
Pool Owner Tips
Mike Corkery

You’ve got a pool, the sun is shining, and the backyard looks like paradise. But before you dive in, there’s one thing that can’t be ignored: safety.

In Oklahoma, a pool fence isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a legal must. And here’s the kicker: the rules don’t stop at the state line. Each city has its own spin on height, gates, gaps, and alarms, meaning a fence that’s compliant in one town might not pass inspection in the next.

Don’t worry, we’ve broken down everything you need to know, from the statewide Oklahoma pool fence law to city-specific rules for Claremore, Tulsa, and Yukon. Consider this your map to staying compliant, protecting your loved ones, and enjoying your pool stress-free.

Statewide Oklahoma Pool Fence Laws

Across Oklahoma, certain standards must be met to protect families.

Oklahoma enforces statewide regulations to maintain pool safety, aligning with national standards like the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). These laws set baseline safety measures for barrier height, gate construction, and openings to prevent unsupervised access.

Key statewide requirements include:

Minimum Barrier Height – pools must be enclosed by a fence at least 48 inches tall measured from the outside ground level.
Vertical Clearance – the gap between the bottom of the fence and the ground should not exceed 2 inches on grass or gravel, and 4 inches on solid surfaces like concrete.
Openings and Gaps – any gap in the fence cannot allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. Horizontal rails less than 45 inches apart must face the pool’s interior to prevent climbing.
Gates – all gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches positioned at least 54 inches above ground. Gates may also include alarms when connecting to the home.

These rules create a safe pool environment while giving homeowners flexibility in fence materials and style.

Local City Pool Fence Laws in Oklahoma

While statewide laws set the baseline, many cities enforce stricter pool fence requirements to further enhance safety. Knowing your city-specific rules ensures compliance, avoids fines, and maximizes protection for children and pets.

Claremore Pool Fence Requirements

In Claremore, city ordinances follow Oklahoma’s statewide pool safety laws with a few enhancements focused on child access prevention. Installing a compliant fence not only meets the law but also provides peace of mind.

Requirement	Details
Fence Height	Minimum 48 inches from ground level.
Vertical Clearance	Maximum 2 inches under the fence on grass or gravel; 4 inches on concrete.
Gaps & Openings	No opening larger than 4 inches; horizontal rails under 45 inches must face the pool side.
Gates	Must be self-closing and self-latching; latch at least 54 inches above ground.

Each pool fence, even the one with the best material, needs to be constructed so as to prevent children from walking under or over the fence.

Tulsa Pool Fence Requirements

Tulsa emphasizes pool safety with specific rules for gate placement and fence construction, reducing the risk of climbing accidents and unauthorized access. Residents should install fences that meet both city and state standards for full compliance.

Any pool enclosure containing water more than 54 inches in depth shall be surrounded by a pool fence that’s ASTM-compliant and follows the said requirements:

Requirement	Details
Fence Height	The pool fence needs to be at least 48 inches in height above finished ground, and to completely surround the swimming pool
Vertical Clearance	The clearance between the surface and the fence shall not exceed four inches.
Gaps & Openings	The barrier shall not allow the passage of a spherical object that’s four inches in diameter.
Gates	All gates need to open outward from the pool area, be self-closing and self-latching, with a latch placed at least 54 inches above ground when the pool is not in use.

Looking for a compliant, reliable pool fence in Tulsa? Pool Guard has you covered with professional installations that meet all local requirements

Yukon Pool Fence Requirements

Yukon prioritizes safety with a focus on preventing unsupervised pool access. City ordinances encourage homeowners to combine proper fencing, secure gates, and alarms to maintain a fully protected pool area.

Requirement	Details
Fence Height	The top of the pool fence should sit at least 48 inches above ground on the side that faces away from the swimming pool.
Vertical Clearance	The vertical clearance between the ground and the fence should not exceed four inches.
Gaps & Openings	The openings shall not allow the passage of a 4-inch spherical object. Horizontal & Vertical Members (<45″): Horizontal rails must be on the pool side; vertical spacing ≤ 1¾”, decorative cutouts ≤ 1¾”. Horizontal & Vertical Members (≥45″): Vertical spacing ≤ 4″, decorative cutouts ≤ 1¾”. Chain Link Fences: Max mesh 2¼” square; if slats added top/bottom, openings ≤ 1¾”. Diagonal/Lattice Fences: Openings ≤ 1¾” measured diagonally.
Gates	Gates, other than pedestrian gates, shall be self-closing, self-latching with a latch placed 54 inches above ground when the pool is not in use.

Edmond Pool Fence Requirements

If you’re planning a pool in Edmond, keeping it safe isn’t optional; it’s the law. Here’s exactly what your pool fence must include to protect your family and stay code-compliant

Requirement	Detail
Fence Height	The pool fence height shall be at least 48 inches above ground when measured from the side facing away from the pool.
Vertical Clearance	/
Gaps & Openings	The openings in the barrier shall not allow the passage of a 4-inch sphere. Where a fence is constructed from horizontal and vertical rails, and the distance between the tops and the horizontal rails is less than 45 inches, then the opening should not exceed 4 inches. Where there are decorative cutouts, the spacing shall be reduced to less than 1.75 inches.
Gates	All gates leading to the pool area shall open outwards, be self-closing and self-latching, hat a latch placed at 54 inches above ground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all residential pools in Oklahoma require a fence?

Any pool capable of holding water over 24 inches deep must be enclosed by a compliant safety barrier, regardless of whether it is in-ground, above-ground, or on-ground.

Can you use my above-ground pool walls as the fence?

Only if the walls are at least 48 inches high and ladders or steps are secured, removed, or surrounded by a compliant barrier to prevent unsupervised access.

Are alarms required instead of a fence?

Alarms can be used in addition to a compliant fence but are not a substitute. Pool fences remain the primary safety measure.

What materials are acceptable for pool fences in Oklahoma?

Mesh, aluminum, wood, vinyl, and chain link fences are commonly used, as long as they meet all height, gap, and gate requirements outlined by state and local codes.

Can you install a fence yourself, or should you hire a professional?

While DIY is possible, professional installation ensures your fence meets all state and local pool fence requirements in Oklahoma. Licensed installers like Pool Guard can provide custom-fit fences that meet safety codes and pass inspections.

Conclusion

Following the Oklahoma pool fence law ensures your pool area is safe, secure, and ready for family fun. From barrier height to gate latches and gap spacing, attention to detail matters.

For homeowners seeking a reliable, compliant, and professionally installed pool fence, Pool Guard stands out as a trusted choice. Their expertise guarantees your fence meets both state and city standards, keeping your loved ones safe while enhancing your backyard’s aesthetics.