What is the BOCA code? What are the requirements for pool fencing?
For Pool Fencing, BOCA means that the fence meets certain standards for safety. Often times this is referred to as a Pool Barrier. Simply stated it means the fence needs to meet these basic requirements: • The top of the fence must be at least 48-inches above ground • Pickets spaced no more that 4-inches apart • Pickets cannot exceed 1-3/4 inches in width • The lower two horizontal rail must be a minimum of 45-inches apart • The horizontal rails need to be on the pool side of the fence • The lowest rail needs to be no farther that 4-inches above ground • Gates should open away from the pool • Gates should be self-closing and self latching • The gate release mechanism of the gate should be at least 54″ from the bottom of the gate. These requirements are for safety in order to keep smaller children from being able to access a pool. The rules eliminate handholds and footholds and minimize the size of the openings and put the gate latches above the reachable height of small children. See a
