An above-ground pool is a key element in creating your backyard oasis—a wonderful place for you and your family to escape to in the outdoors. It’s a place for fun exercise, for kids to play and visit with friends, or simply cool down during the hot summer days.
But as great as a backyard pool can be, we also want to be mindful of the potential dangers. And in many states, including here in Michigan, there are codes in place to protect those using and lounging around the pool. Including those concerning fences.
So do above-ground pools need a fence? And what are the rules if a deck is involved in the design?
Keep reading to find out!
Above-Ground Pool Fence Regulations
In most cases, an above-ground pool will require fencing around your entire backyard property (the exception is if it has a motorized cover). The fence creates a physical barrier between the street or neighboring properties and your pool, adding a layer of security.
But there are a few conditions it will need to meet:
Fence Height
The fence must be at least 4 feet tall. And if your pool walls are 4 feet or taller when measured from outside the pool, they may be sufficient to meet code. But, it will depend on the laws within your local municipality.
Also, note if the ground slopes upward within 3 feet of where you want your pool. If it does, you may need to increase the height of the fence to 6 feet or taller.
Fence Type
Typically, you won’t be able to use a standard chainlink fence because the gaps are large enough for kids to fit their feet in and climb. We all know how much kids love turning things into ladders!
But smaller chainlink fences with openings of 1 ¾ inch or less may be permitted. And some municipalities will even allow inserts to be woven into the fence to block the gaps.
Also, privacy fences built with horizontal 2x4s as support cannot have the beams on the outside of the frame. The 2x4s would also be too easy for kids to climb, so you must install them on the inside of the fence.
Of course, these are the general rules and regulations, and they can change depending on your community. For specific information on your municipality, Google {your city name and state} pool and spa code.
What If You Have a Deck?
It wouldn’t be right for us not to discuss the rules that apply when you’re dealing with a pool and a back deck. Most of the same laws apply, but there are a couple of additional codes to follow.
If you plan to build a deck that connects the pool to your home’s backdoor, you also need to install an alarm that sounds every time the door opens. This safety mechanism will alert adults of any children who may have opened the back door to access the pool without supervision.
If you build your deck around your above-ground pool, but it’s not attached to your home, you won’t have to worry about an alarm. But you’ll still need to have a fence around the perimeter of your property. And also have a lockable gate on the deck stairs.
A Word on Digging
If you’re building your deck around a pool, your builder will need to know about any pool supply lines underground.
A deck requires structural support, which means the builder will need to insert ground screws or other supports into the ground during the build. And in Michigan, this means drilling past the frost line, which is 42 inches down and far deeper than you’ll find most pool supply lines installed.
So if you know where these lines (including copper wire or anything else for your pool) are located underground, please let your builder know!
Code requires having structural supports no more than 8 feet apart (and closer in some cases). So while the placement of structural posts is somewhat limited depending on your municipality, pool, and deck design, at least your builder will be aware of where the lines are and do their best to protect them from being damaged.
Note: Also, be mindful that any deck, including one built for an above-ground pool, will require railing around if the deck’s height is 30 inches or more off the ground.
What About Hot Tubs?
Some of you may be wondering if these codes also apply to hot tubs, so we thought it would be worth mentioning.
The same code applies to both hot tubs and in-ground pools. If they have a hard cover (and it must be automated for in-ground pools), you aren’t required to install fencing. Otherwise, you’ll need to fence off the water according to the rules above.
Conclusion
Do above-ground pools need a fence? In most cases, yes, building code requires you to have a fence around your pool, if not your entire backyard.
But make sure to double-check the regulations in your local municipality or call Custom Deck Creations.
Oh, and watch out for underground supply lines!
What Next?
Are you ready for a brand new deck? Let’s chat!
At Custom Deck Creations, we build composite decks for clients across SE Michigan. Our builds are all custom-made, so we’ll work with you on a design that works for you. And it’s even more fun if you have a pool!
When you’re ready, get in touch! We’ll chat about your project and give you a free over-the-phone estimate. Or, feel free to look through our most recent projects for inspiration.
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