What does Glendale require?
Glendale's city code adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code with local changes. As summarized from the city code (checked October 2026), the key points are:
- The top of the barrier must be at least 60 inches above grade, measured on the side away from the pool.
- The barrier must sit at least 20 inches from the water's edge.
- Pedestrian gates must open outward, away from the pool, and close and latch on their own.
- Pool barriers need a building permit at any height. Glendale's permit exemption for fences up to 7 feet specifically leaves out pool barriers.
The city also adds extra protection requirements in some homes where the house itself forms part of the barrier. We go over those for your layout before we design anything.
What does Arizona law say?
Arizona's pool enclosure statute, A.R.S. 36-1681, sets a 5-foot barrier with no openings a 4-inch ball can pass through, horizontal members at least 45 inches apart unless they're on the pool side, self-closing and self-latching gates with the latch at least 54 inches up, and outward-swinging gates. Cities with an equal or stricter ordinance can apply their own rules, which is why we start with Glendale's.
What materials work?
Iron or aluminum picket fencing is the usual pick for an inside barrier because you can see through it. Block works for the outside perimeter. What matters most is the details: picket spacing, where the rails sit, the gap at the bottom and nothing a child could climb.
Why do gates fail inspection?
Usually it's the hardware. A spring that's too weak, a latch that doesn't catch from every angle, or a gate that swings toward the water. We install self-closing hinges and a high latch, then test the gate from fully open and half open before we leave. Big double gates, like RV gates, need their own setup. See RV gates.
Full details are in What are the pool barrier rules in Glendale, AZ?