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 poolThe International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), Section 305.3, requires pedestrian gates to open outward, away from the pool. Check your state page for the code that applies where you live.
Latch release at 54"+, or on the pool sideUnder ISPSC Sections 305.3.3 and 305.3.4, a release less than 54 inches up goes on the pool side, at least 3 inches below the top of the gate, with no opening larger than 1/2 inch within 18 inches of it.
Gate bottom clearance does not exceed 2 inchesGate bottom is often missed. Check it separately from fence bottom clearance.
4. Non-Climbable Zone
No climbable objects within 36" of fence exteriorFurniture, planters, AC units and decorative rocks must all be moved outside the 36" zone.
Horizontal members on the pool side where requiredWhere horizontal members are less than 45 inches apart, ISPSC Section 305.2.5 puts them on the pool side. Chain link must meet your code's mesh opening limit.
5. Full Enclosure
Barrier completely encloses the poolCheck every side, including where the fence meets the house. Any gap breaks the enclosure.
If a house wall is part of the barrier, its pool-side doors and windows are protectedISPSC Section 305.4 calls for door and window alarms, an ASTM International (ASTM) F1346 safety cover, or another means your building official approves. Arizona's statute sets its own four options (ARS 36-1681(C)). Check your state page.
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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