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Do I Need a Fence for an Inground Pool in North Carolina? The Short Answer Is Yes—Here’s Why

If you’re dreaming of an inground pool in your North Carolina backyard—maybe a sleek fiberglass number from Parrot Bay Pools or a custom concrete beauty—you’re probably wondering: Do I really need a fence around it? The quick answer is yes, you do. North Carolina law doesn’t mess around when it comes to pool safety, and for good reason. But don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds, and we’ve got the details to get you pool-ready without the headache. Let’s dive in.

The Law Says Yes: NC’s Pool Barrier Rules

North Carolina follows the North Carolina Residential Code, based on the International Residential Code (IRC), and it’s crystal clear: if your inground pool is more than 24 inches deep (spoiler: most are), you need a barrier. That’s right—whether it’s a 4-foot deep plunge pool or an 8-foot diving dream, the state mandates a protective enclosure to keep kids, pets, and wandering neighbors safe.

Here’s what the code demands:

  • Height: At least 48 inches (4 feet) tall, measured from the ground outside the barrier.
  • Gaps: No openings bigger than 4 inches—think slats, pickets, or spaces under the fence. If it’s chain-link, the mesh holes can’t exceed 2.25 inches unless slats shrink them further.
  • Gates: Must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch at least 54 inches high or on the pool side, out of reach of little hands.

    This applies across the state—Raleigh, Charlotte, Wilmington, you name it. No county opts out of this baseline, though some might tack on stricter rules (more on that in a sec).

    Why the Fence? Safety First

    The rule’s not just red tape—it’s about saving lives. Drowning is a top cause of accidental death for kids under 5, and NC’s warm climate means pools get year-round love, even with our mild winters. A fence isn’t optional; it’s your first line of defense. Plus, if you skip it and something goes wrong, you could face fines, lawsuits, or worse—peace of mind is worth the effort.

    Does Your Yard Affect This?

    Yep, your setup matters. If your pool’s already hugged by a 4-foot property fence that meets code, you might be golden—just check the gate specs. But if your yard’s wide open with no existing fence, or slopes tricky (hello, NC clay soil), you’ll need a dedicated pool fence. Got a septic system? That’s common in rural NC—keep the fence clear of drain fields to avoid permit snags.

    Local Twists: Counties and HOAs

    While the state sets the floor, local rules can raise the bar. In Wake County (Raleigh area), for example, you’ll need a building permit and a final inspection to prove your fence complies.

Then there’s the HOA factor—big in NC’s planned communities. Some mandate 5-foot fences, specific styles (wrought iron or aluminum- not chain-link), or even pool covers on top of barriers. Check your HOA docs or risk a nasty letter post-install.

What If I Don’t Fence It?

Tempted to skip it? Don’t. Beyond the safety risks, you’ll fail your pool’s final inspection—no certificate of occupancy, no swimming. Counties can fine you (hundreds of dollars, depending on the spot), and insurance might hike your rates or drop coverage if you’re non-compliant. Worst case? An accident could land you in legal hot water. It’s not worth the gamble.

Making It Work: Options and Costs

Good news: fencing doesn’t have to kill your vibe or budget. Chain-link runs $10-$20 per linear foot, wood or vinyl $20-$40, and glass (fancy!) $50-$100+. For a 20×40 pool, that’s $2,500-$6,000 total, depending on your taste. Companies like Parrot Bay Pools often bundle fencing into their quotes or point you to trusted installers—ask during your consult to save hassle.

Want it pretty? Go for black aluminum—it’s low-maintenance and sleek. On a budget? Chain-link with privacy slats does the trick. Either way, it’s a small price for safety and that sweet, legal pool life.

The Bottom Line

Yes, you need a fence for your inground pool in North Carolina—state law demands it, and it’s a smart move anyway. It’s less about “if” and more about “how” to make it fit your yard and style. Before you dig, double-check your local codes and HOA rules, and chat with your builder—they’ll know the drill.

Ready to jump in? A fenced pool’s your ticket to summer bliss, minus the worry. Got more questions? Drop us a line—we’re here to help you splash into your dream backyard the right way.

Call us 919-888-0327