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Whether you’re installing a new in-ground pool in Salt Lake City or upgrading your above-ground setup in Saratoga Springs, understanding the Utah pool fence code and county-level fence regulations is essential. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about pool safety fencing in Utah for 2025.
The Utah pool fence code exists to reduce the risk of drowning, especially for children under the age of six. Utah, like many states, bases its residential pool safety rules on the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), which sets standards for barrier height, gate operation, and fence design.
In addition to state-level code references, each city or county may enforce its regulations or build on state requirements with stricter guidelines. That’s why it’s essential to check the local regulations before installing or modifying a pool barrier.
Utah’s regulations aim to do three things:
The minimum required height for a pool fence in Utah varies by city and county, but according to the statewide pool fence requirements, the minimum pool fence height is 6 feet (72 inches) when measured from the finished grade on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool. This provides maximum protection and aligns with ASTM and ISPSC recommendations.
However, in some jurisdictions, like parts of Utah County, the requirement may be as low as 48 inches, particularly for properties with unique zoning conditions or existing structures.
The takeaway? Your pool fence must maintain a consistent height across its entire length, measured from the outside ground level, to be considered compliant in most Utah cities and counties.
To prevent small children from squeezing through or under a fence, the Utah pool fence code limits all gaps and openings. The openings of the pool fence should not allow a sphere larger than 4 inches to pass through.
These requirements ensure that the fence functions as a solid barrier, not just a visual boundary.
The pool fence requirements Utah adheres to don’t stop at the minimum height and opening space. What if the fence allows for children to use it as a hand or foot hold to enter the pool area? Is that safe enough for a child to be left alone without an adult present? We have to strongly disagree here.
A compliant pool fence must do more than just stand still. The Utah pool code, modeled after the ISPSC, cannot place a strong enough emphasis on what they call it- a ‘climb-resistant construction’ to make sure the children don’t use the fence itself as a ladder into the pool area.
If your fence includes horizontal rails, such as boards, bars, or decorative elements, and the vertical distance between them is less than 45 inches, then those horizontal components must be installed on the pool-facing side of the fence.
According to the code, any horizontal members closer than 45 inches apart will fail inspection because they can help a child ladder their way over.
Utah code explicitly prohibits any structural or decorative elements that can function as grip points or climbing aids. This includes:
Even fence textures matter. Rough surfaces, such as natural wood or stone with wide mortar joints, may provide enough friction for a child to climb if the spacing or layout isn’t carefully designed.
A pool fence is only as strong as its gate. That’s why Utah requires all access points to follow strict design rules:.
For extra safety, some cities recommend dual-locking gates or magnetic child-proof latches, especially in neighborhoods with high foot traffic or multi-unit homes.
While Salt Lake County follows the general statewide pool fence code based on IBC Section 305, it has adopted the statewide requirements into its local code on swimming pool regulations:
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum 60 inches | Minimum six feet |
| Vertical clearance | No more than 2 inches from the ground to the bottom |
| Gaps & Openings | Less than 4 inches between vertical members |
| Pool Gates | Must swing outward, self-close, self-latch, latch at 54”+ |
Salt Lake County also enforces additional zoning rules for setback distances from property lines and utility easements.
Davis County and all its cities adhere to the statewide pool fence code that has been adopted in their local pool fence regulations, stating that:
| Requirement | Details |
| Fence Height | 6 feet are required for all new installations |
| Vertical clearance | Max 2 inches from finished grade |
| Gaps & Openings | 4 inches max spacing |
| Pool Gates | Outward swinging, self-latching, auto-close, with a latch placed at 54 inches above the ground. |
Even Clinton City adheres to the same pool fence regulation with the exception that the swimming pool must be placed at a minimum of five feet from any property line.
Just as the other counties, Utah County has adopted the statewide pool safety barrier regulations in all cities, including Saratoga Springs.
| Requirement | Details |
| Fence Height | Six feet depending on zoning and lot conditions |
| Vertical clearance | No more than 2 inches |
| Gaps & Openings | The gap should not allow a sphere of 4 inches in diameter to pass through. |
| Pool Gates | Must auto-close, self-latch, and swing outward |
Yes, but only if all doors and windows that lead to the pool are alarmed or if you use a compliant pool cover.
Yes. Mesh fences are permitted and widely used, especially when they meet ASTM F2286 safety standards and are professionally installed.
In most Utah cities and counties, yes. You’ll need to apply for a fence permit and possibly schedule an inspection.
Yes, but it must still meet code requirements. DIY jobs are subject to the same inspection process as professionally installed fences. However, it’s best you go with professional installers for added safety and security.
Understanding and following the Utah pool fence code isn’t just about checking a box, it’s about saving lives, avoiding legal trouble, and protecting your peace of mind.
At Pool Guard, we specialize in building and installing removable mesh pool fences that are 100% compliant with Utah’s pool safety laws. Backed by ASTM standards, weather-resistant materials, and professional installation, our fences offer the ideal blend of safety, style, and convenience.
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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