How Tall Should a Pool Fence Be for Child Safety?
If you own a pool in The Woodlands or Conroe, safety isn't just a luxury—it’s a legal and moral imperative. According to the CDC, drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children under five. A properly installed pool fence is the most effective way to prevent these tragedies.
Secure Your Pool Today
In the state of Texas, the standard minimum height for a pool safety fence is 48 inches (4 feet). However, many safety experts and local municipalities recommend a height of 60 inches (5 feet) to ensure that older children cannot easily scale the barrier.
Beyond Height: The Non-Climbable Requirement
- Horizontal Members: Are located on the pool side of the fence so they cannot be used as footholds from the outside.
- Gap Clearance: The space between the bottom of the fence and the ground must not exceed 4 inches.
- Picket Spacing: Pickets must be close enough together that a 4-inch sphere (the size of a small child's head) cannot pass through.
The Self-Closing, Self-Latching Gate
The height of the fence is only as good as the gate. Texas law requires pool gates to be self-closing and self-latching. The latch must be placed on the pool side of the gate, at least 54 inches from the ground, ensuring it is well out of reach of small children.
