Always Verify With Your Local Building Department
Requirements vary by state and city. This checklist covers the most common requirements. Confirm your specific local standards before your inspection.
1. Fence Height
Fence meets local minimum heightMost states/cities: 48 inches. Arizona: 60 inches. Measure from outside on the lowest point of grade.
Height consistent around full perimeterMeasure at every corner and mid-span. Grade changes can create low spots.
2. Openings & Ground Clearance
No opening larger than 4 inches in any directionUse a 4-inch sphere test: if a 4-inch ball passes through, the opening is too large.
Bottom clearance does not exceed 2 inchesCheck the full perimeter. Ground settling is a common cause of failure.
No gaps at corners or wall transitionsEspecially common failure point where fence meets a house wall or structure.
3. Gate Requirements
Gate is self-closing from all open positionsOpen gate at 90° and let go — it must close and latch fully without assistance.
Gate is self-latchingLatch must engage automatically when gate closes, without manual action.
Gate opens outward — away from the poolRequired in most jurisdictions. Gate must not swing toward the pool.
Latch on pool side, or at 54"+ if on exteriorIf latch is on the street side, it must be 54+ inches from bottom or guarded against child access.
Gate bottom clearance does not exceed 2 inchesGate bottom is often missed — check separately from fence bottom clearance.
4. Non-Climbable Zone
No climbable objects within 36" of fence exteriorFurniture, planters, AC units, decorative rocks — all must be moved outside the 36" zone.
No horizontal rails or footholds on fence exteriorChain-link and some aluminum styles fail this. Mesh and solid panels are safer.
5. 4-Sided Isolation
Fence completely surrounds the poolCheck all four sides. Any breach voids the isolation.
House not used as barrier side (if required by local code)Required in Arizona. In most other states, the house can serve as one side — verify locally.
6. Hardware & Structural Condition
All posts are plumb, secure, and stableWobbly or leaning posts are a common failure point.
No broken or missing fence sectionsAny gap or breach must be repaired before inspection.
Gate spring and hardware in working orderTest gate 5+ times. Springs wear out and may pass initially but fail under repeated use.
7. Permits & Documentation
Building permit was obtained before installationUnpermitted work may require removal and reinstallation.
Final inspection is scheduled with building departmentThe inspector must physically visit and sign off. A permit alone does not equal compliance.
Permit documentation available on-siteHave your permit number ready. Some inspectors require the permit card to be posted.
Download the Printable PDF Checklist
Get the full checklist as a printable PDF — take it to your fence, use it before your city inspection, or share it with your installer.
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