Fences are required around in-ground pools in Michigan. Fences are also typically a requirement for home owners’ insurance policies. The specific pool fence requirements may depend on your policy and municipal code. In this blog, we discuss the most common pool fence features and your pool fence design options.
What are the Michigan Pool Fence Requirements?
If you have an in-ground pool, your local CITY code typically outlines specific requirements for fencing around a pool. To make sure you comply with local regulations, we recommend speaking with an experienced fencing professional to make sure you are in compliance with the law.
However, most requirements have consistent characteristics, including these safety features:
- All pools without an auto-cover must be enclosed by a barrier that is at least 4 feet high. (Note: certain counties, townships, and cities still require a barrier with an auto-cover. Check with your local jurisdiction to confirm.)
- All gates must be self-shutting, self-latching, and open outward away from the pool. The latch must be at least 54 inches above the ground.
- Chian link fences can’t have openings larger than 1 ½ inches square.
- Vertical pickets must be a maximum of 4 inches apart.
- Horizontal supports must be no less than 45 inches apart.
- The bottom of the pool fence cannot exceed 4 inches above a solid surface foundation, or 2 inches above a malleable surface, such as grass or gravel.
- The fence must not be climbable.
- There must be a “clear zone” no less than 36 inches around the exterior of the fence and around any permanent structures or equipment such as pumps, filters, or heaters that can be used to climb over the fence.
- The pool fence cannot be any closer than 20 inches from the pool’s edge.
These features ensure small children can’t accidentally let themselves into the pool area, either by scaling the fence or getting through the gate. These requirements may also prioritize visibility, so you can see what’s happening in the pool area from your home. However, there are different visibility options depending on your unique situation and layout. In some cases, you may want or need solid panels to protect the privacy of people using your pool. Our team of designers can help you understand your choices and make the right decision based on your needs.
Your Pool Fence Material and Design Options
Just because an in-ground pool fence is a requirement, that doesn’t mean it can’t add aesthetic value. These features also ensure there’s a high level of visibility so if a child or a pet does get through the fence, you can see them through the flats or links in the fence.
At Out Back Casual Living and Fence, we have a variety of pool fence styles to choose from so you don’t have to compromise on pool safety or your landscaping design. This includes materials like wood, aluminum, or vinyl. We have been the go-to company for fencing in West Michigan’s since1995, and would be happy to help you install a fence that’s not only safe, but beautiful as well. Our in-house team of installers have been with Out Back Casual Living & Fence for years—most since 1995! Our team brings experience and skill, so you can trust your pool fence project will be safe, sound, and completed with a high level of professionalism.
Contact Out Back Casual Living & Fence to Get a Free Quote on a Pool Fence
If you are interested in exploring your pool fencing options, we encourage you to get in touch. You can view a variety of fencing styles at our showroom on West River Drive in Comstock Park, or send us an email to request a free, no obligation pool fence estimate. Quotes are always no-obligation and no-pressure. We look forward to speaking with you!
