Last Updated on January 1, 2023
Las Vegas is known as an opulent wonderland, visited by people across the country and the world to experience the decadence it has to offer. The thing is, while this city is known for its neon lights and luxurious attractions, it has a regular residential area.
If you live in Las Vegas, you definitely know how the desert heat can get to residents. This is why a lot of homeowners are opting to install a swimming pool in their yards. This way, they can get repose from the heat while getting in some exercise and have a lot of fun.
Those who are planning to install an in-ground pool should know that the city has laws surrounding such installations. One of the most important but overlooked rules is regarding fences. This is why because some cities do not impose fencing laws. However, Las Vegas definitely has in-ground fence regulations. Not sure how to proceed? Here’s what you need to know.
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What are In-Ground Pool Fence Requirements Per Las Vegas Laws
Before you start building your in-ground pool, you should know the city’s regulations regarding these structures, so you can factor them into your planning.
The most important thing to know is the height, installation of gates, standard sizes for gaps and openings, and measures to keep children out. Check out these specifications that will help you comply with Las Vegas pool fence laws.
Height
One of the vital aspects of a pool fence is its height. You want to make sure that the height can make it harder for adults to climb and that it prevents children from getting in. This is why the standard height for pool fences in Las Vegas is at least five feet.
The main reason for such specifications is to prevent any untoward incidents, such as drownings. After all, drowning is one of the most common causes of death in children one to four years of age. Even adults can fall victim to such incidents with an average of 11 fatal drownings and 22 non-fatal drownings per day.
You want to make sure that your pool is safe for adults and children alike, and fences can help you achieve this.
Gates
Of course, you cannot have a completely fenced-in pool as it can make it impossible for you to use it. Instead of leaving an opening Vegas laws say that you need to install a self-closing and self-latching gate.
Automatic closing and locking mechanisms make sure that anyone who enters the pool area will not leave the opening available for the unexpected entry of a child or pet, which can lead to unpleasant events. Likewise, it removes the possibility of children or pets getting into the pool without adult supervision.
Gaps and Openings
You also need to make sure that the gaps between the bottom of the fence and the ground are not more than two inches. This is so that children and pets could not shimmy under the gap. Children usually run around and shimmy through the smallest of spaces. By observing this measurement, you remove potential hazards that could harm the kids.
Besides the gaps between the ground and the bottom of the fence, there are also openings in the fence itself and these should not exceed four inches. The openings in the fence entail that a sphere equal to or greater than the said four inches will not go through the space. This rule also prevents children from entering the premises and going into the pool unsupervised.
Measures to Keep Children Out
Apart from the aforementioned rules concerning gaps and openings, there are other measures in place that were specifically designed to keep children out, especially without adult supervision.
One of these is completely removing ledges, handholds, and other areas they can hold on to and climb over the said fence. Footholds are likewise eliminated in these areas to prevent children from using these as stepping stones and working their way up and over the fence.
All of these measures seek to keep children from falling into the pool and eventually from drowning. Although these requirements may seem overwhelming, at the core of it all is the safety and security of children and even others around you as well.
Why are In-Ground Pool Laws Important?
In-ground pool laws exist to ensure the safety and welfare of users at all times. In the same way, these rules also establish the hygiene and comfort of the pool itself. Business owners and homeowners alike should heed these regulations in place to help do their part in keeping the children and community safe.
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in young children between the ages of one and four. Next to motor vehicle crashes, the second leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 14 is drowning as well. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), eight children receive emergency care for drowning incidents for every child who dies.
Through these regulations, the government of Las Vegas ensures that accidents are avoided and that children are kept safe and sound. By seeing to it that the requirements for fences, openings, and gaps are adhered to, as well as the pool being fenced off, untimely deaths and tragedies can be kept at arm’s length.
Penalties for Not Following Las Vegas Pool Laws
Despite the glitz and glamor that Las Vegas is usually associated with, officials certainly take action when it comes to the safety and security of their people, which is why they tend to implement and uphold their laws.
For those who fail to meet these Las Vegas pool requirements, bear in mind that there are certain consequences you have to face. These include being subjected to fines of up to $1,000, or worse, having your pool permit taken away. Homeowners may also be held liable if a child is injured in their area due to their unsecured pool.
There are various consequences that one could face when they fail to keep their pool fenced off and or when a child is seriously injured in their pool due to their failure to comply with these regulations. By following the law, you can prevent these situations from even happening in the first place.
Instances Where Exceptions Occur
The laws in place can be quite strict and for good reason, but there are also exceptions to these. One that you should know is that a fenced pool may not be necessary provided that the pool is closed off or is surrounded by other structures, such as a house, that make it impossible and inaccessible to kids.
In addition, pools that meet the ASTM International Standard of F1346-91, or that have a safety cover that fit the bill, are not required by the law to fence off their pool. After all, the safety cover is enough to prevent drowning since it covers the pool itself and separates it from what the children could access.
These aforementioned covers are usually made of mesh or another type of strong fabric and should be covering the deep end of the pool or the whole area. Likewise, these should be anchored to the ground to ensure their durability and safety.
Making Sure that You Conform with Las Vegas Pool Laws
Get in Touch with Your Local Officials
One of the best initiatives that you can do as a homeowner is to call your local pool fence expert. Give us a try! We are very knowledgeable about the rules and regulations in place for your in-ground pool and we can guide you in achieving the standards the city has set.
Do Your Research About Pool Fences
There are various materials, functionalities, and practical factors and types when it comes to pool fences on the market. Based on the criteria and regulations provided, choosing the right one for your in-ground pool is essential.
Mesh fences give you the best of both worlds since they are durable and can withstand different types of weather. Chain link fences, on the other hand, are popular for their affordability but it also an eyesore.
Meanwhile, covers are durable and versatile, allowing you to see more of your pool while also preventing objects or people from falling it. You only need to make sure you put the cover on after each use.
Work with a Professional
Not everyone is adept at dealing with these state regulations. Working with a reliable professional can help ease the pressure of whether or not you’re doing the right thing. These experts are adept at installing the right fences and can ensure you’re complying with the regulations.
The Cost of Installing an In-Ground Pool Fence
Fences for your in-ground pool can cost you anywhere from $500 to $5,000 depending on the size of the size and type of fence you want to have installed. You should also factor in the installation costs that come with this if you opt to have professionals install these in your space.
The Bottom Line
Learning about the in-ground pool fence laws in Las Vegas is greatly useful. Not only does it help you become more aware of your duties and responsibilities as an in-ground pool owner but, you’re also doing your job of keeping the people around you safe and secure.
