Once the summer heat starts to roll in, you’ll be so glad to have a pool. However, as enjoyable and relaxing as a pool can be, it’s also a potential safety hazard if you’re not careful. At JDH Fences and Decks, we want all of our customers to use their pools responsibly. In this article, we’ll go over the various rules and regulations regarding pool fencing. We’ll also provide you with some tips to ensure that your little ones stay safe all year round.
Why Do Pool Fence Codes Exist?
No matter where you live in Georgia, your pool will almost always be required to have a fence around it. The primary purpose of a barrier is to help prevent accidental drownings of little children. Also, if your pool is out in the open, anyone could potentially use it, including various unwanted critters.
Overall, a pool fence is a smart move. So, if you’re thinking of installing a new pool, or you’re ready to update your current fencing, you need to know what to expect. Fortunately, we at JDH Fences and Decks are well-versed in all of the codes and regulations in Georgia, so you don’t have to memorize them. That being said, here are the basics so you can plan accordingly.
Height Considerations
All pool fences have to be four feet high – five feet if you live in Fulton County. Also, keep in mind that a wall higher than four feet will likely have to get zoning permits, which can be a pain. However, if you’re trying to keep prying eyes away from your pool, it’s probably worth the extra work.
If you have an above-ground pool, the sides of the structure can also double as a barrier, provided that they are tall enough. However, if the pool is less than two feet deep, you don’t have to worry about fencing at all. We still recommend it though if you’re going to keep water in the pool all year round. Plenty of critters will try to take a bath if you leave it unattended.
Climbing
Just because you have a fence, it doesn’t mean that people in the Savannah area can’t get around it. The area surrounding the pool shouldn’t have any rocks, trees, or installations (i.e., pool pump housing) within three feet of the fence. If there are obstacles that make climbing possible, we’ll have to remove them before completing the barrier.
Clearance and Spacing
According to local regulations the bottom clearance of your pool fence can be no higher than four inches. If the ground is loose, like gravel, then the maximum height is two inches. Spaces within the fence, such as wooden slats or chain links, can’t exceed 1.25 inches. To that end, decorative openings or decor are not allowed on the fence, particularly if they will enable anyone to climb over.
Gates
All pool fencing gates are held to the same standards as the rest of the fence. Not only that, but each gate has to be self-latching and self-closing. So, if you don’t have a spring hinge on your entrance, it’s time to upgrade! In Fulton County, in particular, the gate should be located near the shallowest end of the pool.
Pool Access
Georgia is a bit different than other parts of the country, as the code doesn’t allow direct access to the pool from any dwelling. That means if your back door leads to the pool area, you need to block it off. Other states simply require an alarm system or locking mechanism to prevent kids from getting to the pool unsupervised.
For above-ground pools, you have to pay attention to the ladder to get in. Either you have to be able to block it off with a fence or remove the ladder altogether.
Tips for Making Your Georgia Pool Safer
A fence is an excellent start for pool safety, but you have to take additional steps to protect your little ones. Here are some quick tips from JDH Fences and Decks.
Get a Hard Cover – If your children can walk across the pool without falling in, that can be a potential lifesaver.
Teach Swimming Lessons – Once your kids are comfortable in the water, they can likely get themselves out in an accident. Also, preparation can help avoid panic in the moment.
Don’t Allow Access Without Supervision – Since you can’t get to the pool from your house (per Georgia law), it’s easier to keep your kids away from the water. However, it’s also a good idea to consider padlocks or other mechanisms as well.
When it comes to pool fencing, we will make it easy for you. Not only do all of our fences adhere to these rules (including Fulton County), but we’ll do all the measuring and assessing for you. Be sure to call us for a site visit, and we can determine the right options for your situation.
In addition to having safe and reliable pool fences and gates, we also have a variety of styles and designs to choose from as well. Whether you want wood, vinyl, chain link, or aluminum, we can do it all. Do you want privacy? Do you want to be able to lock the pool up during the off-season? Whatever it is, we can make it a reality.
Contact JDH Decks and Fences: A Savannah, Georgia Fence Company
If you have been searching for the perfect fence for your home and are in Savannah, Georgia or the surrounding area, we would love to help.
JDH has been family-owned & operated, and working to serve our customers in the region for many years. We have an outstanding reputation for providing high-quality and affordable aluminum, vinyl, wood and chain link residential and commercial fences. If you have any questions or are ready to get started with your own fence, contact us today.
Contact our team of fence experts today so you can start enjoying your brand new fence. Our experienced, professional staff is ready to help you purchase the fence you have been dreaming about.
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