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Texas Pool Codes — State Requirements

Under Chapter 757 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, all homeowners with swimming pools must maintain pool barrier fencing and gates that meet state-mandated criteria. Note that individual cities may have additional pool fencing requirements beyond these minimums.

• Pool fences must be at least 48 inches (4 feet) tall, measured from the ground on the side facing away from the pool.
• Gaps in or under the fence must be too small for a 4-inch spherical object to pass through.
• New pool enclosures may not be constructed of chain-link fencing in Texas.
• Wood fences with horizontal and vertical members must place the horizontal cross-pieces on the pool side to prevent climbing from the outside.

Gates & Latches

• Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, opening outward away from the pool.
• The latch mechanism must be installed in the top one-fourth of the pool side of the gate.
• Gates must be lockable by padlock, combination lock, or built-in keyed/card-operated lock.
• For residential pools, the latch release must be at least 54 inches above the finished floor.

ISPSC Model Code

The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) provides additional model guidelines. Where chain-link fencing is permitted, the maximum opening size is 1¾ inches. The ISPSC also includes provisions to prevent barriers from being used for climbing.

When a wall of your home serves as part of the pool barrier, any doors, gates, or operable windows with a sill height less than 48 inches above the finished floor must have a water hazard entrance alarm.

• Alarms must produce an audible warning when the door, window, or screen is opened.
• The alarm must be a listed and labeled water hazard entrance alarm in compliance with UL 2017.
• Deactivation switches must be located at least 54 inches above the floor (standard dwellings) to prevent child access.
• Accessible units require switches between 48 and 54 inches above the floor.

Alternative Protections

• A safety cover listed and labeled per ASTM F1346 may be used instead of pool alarms.
• Self-closing doors with self-latching devices providing equivalent protection are also acceptable.

Watch: Safety Requirements for Glazing Near Wet Surfaces

• Teach all children to swim before your pool is installed. This is the #1 rule for drowning prevention. Remember: formal lessons do not make a child "drown-proof."
• No child should ever be in the pool area without constant adult supervision.
• Use the buddy system — no one should swim alone.
• Anyone who appears intoxicated or under the influence should not be permitted to swim.
• The pool gate must remain locked when not under adult supervision.
• Never make assumptions. When guests come over, always ask: "Do you know how to swim?"
• The pool area must be properly lit when used after dusk.
• Survey the pool area for potential hazards before entering.
• Store all pool chemicals safely per manufacturer instructions, away from children.
• All electrical devices in the pool area must be protected by a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).
• If your pool changes depth, keep the transition rope in place as a warning to swimmers.
• All users — family and guests — should be familiar with pool safety rules before entering.
• Anyone using a diving board should be familiar with all manufacturer safety instructions.
• All pool drains must be properly covered. If any drain cover is broken or missing, close the pool immediately.
• Keep a first-aid kit accessible in the pool area at all times.
• Enter the pool feet first. A pool without a diving board is a non-diving pool — no headfirst entry.
• No one should stand on or play near a pool cover.
• Keep the pool and surrounding area clean, maintained, and sanitary.
• Keep emergency phone numbers posted and a phone accessible in the pool area.
• No running or horseplay in or near the pool area.
• Keep safety equipment nearby: a flotation device, a life buoy with rope, and a shepherd's hook or reaching pole.
• No one should climb on or jump from rock boulders, waterfalls, or structures not intended for pool entry.