When searching for the best pool fence, you’ve got lots of options.
It can be hard to decide which fence is right for you and your property.
In this simple guide…
We’ll cover local pool fence requirements.
Then we’ll take a look at different pool fence design options to give you a better idea of where to start.
Let’s dive right in.
Pool Fence Requirements
Pool safety fence requirements are in place to protect children from drowning risk, and they vary by location.
It’s important to know the code requirements of your local state or city.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has a great guide, called Safety Barrier Guidelines for Residential Pools.
In it, they define a successful pool barrier as one that:
“…prevents a child from getting over, under, or through and keeps the child from gaining access to the pool except when supervising adults are present.”
Oklahoma pool enclosure requirements are covered in the Oklahoma Uniform Building Code, and many cities adopt this code as their requirements as well.
The city of Tulsa has it’s own defined standards which currently state:
Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than 24 inches (610 mm) in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches (1219 mm) in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be self-closing and self-latching. Where the self-latching device is less than 54 inches (1372 mm) above the bottom of the gate, the release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the gate. Self-closing and self latching gates shall be maintained such that the gate will positively close and latch when released from an open position of 6 inches (152 mm) from the gatepost. No existing pool enclosure shall be removed, replaced or changed in a manner that reduces its effectiveness as a safety barrier. Exception: Spas or hot tubs with a safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346 shall be exempt from the provisions of this section.
Public bathing pool enclosure rules are stricter, and usually carry increased requirements in terms of height, security, etc.
Now, let’s take a look at some common fence options that meet these requirements.
Ornamental Steel Pool Fence
A great choice for homeowners, commercial pool owners and public swimming pools…
Ornamental steel fences are one of the most popular types of pool fence.
Steel is stronger than aluminum and provides increased security around your pool.
This type of black metal fencing offers an elegant look and excellent visibility through the fence.
Ameristar fence is the gold standard for this type of fence.
Ameristar’s Montage Pool, Pet and Play (PPP) series offers added child and pet safety.
It’s vertical pickets are closer together than normal, with only a 3″ gap between pickets.
Offering more strength and reduced risk of anyone getting through the fence.
Steel fencing comes in a variety of style options.
The Classic and Majestic are the most popular choices, but other options are available.
A local Ameristar fence installer can help you determine the best style for your property.
Aluminum Pool Fence
Not as common in Oklahoma…
…but installed in some areas of the country for residential pool fencing, an aluminum pool fence is a good choice.
And similar to ornamental steel, it comes in a variety of style options.
Ameristar aluminum fence panels are powder coated for years of long-lasting durability and maintenance-free performance.
While we generally recommend steel over aluminum for the fence around your pool, aluminum is an option for some.
Rail & Chain Link Fence
If you’d like a more rustic look for your swimming pool fence.
Consider a rail and chain link fence.
Your wood rail and chain link fence options can include a design similar to the one below.
Where you’ve got cedar wood rails combined with black metal posts.
Or, you could do a round rail fence with chain link attached.
Either way, this fence design is a great option for fencing around a pool on an acreage or a more rustic residential property.
Pool Privacy Fence
If you’d like to keep prying eyes out, then you might consider a full privacy fence around your pool.
A pool privacy fence can be constructed the same as a normal privacy fence.
Pool privacy fence design options include: wood, vinyl and other materials in horizontal or vertical layouts.
A full privacy fence may be a great option for fencing around an above-ground pool.
Let’s look beyond a traditional wood pool fence.
Premium Pool Privacy Fence
When you’re property calls for the best in pool privacy.
And privacy fence cost is not the main issue…
You might want to consider a FenceTrac pool privacy fence.
A true “no gap” pool privacy fence…
The FenceTrac system offers nearly unlimited design options.
With a black metal frame and metal posts, you can select from different infill materials that fill in each fence panel.
For total privacy, we offer tongue and groove cedar.
That looks absolutely fantastic when it’s stained.
Oher options include PVC or other custom infill materials.
Let Empire Help
There are several factors to consider when it comes to designing a pool fence.
If your family or your community is in the market for a new fence…
…contact us to discuss options.
We’ll be glad to help!
Contact Empire Fence
As a regional leader in fence design and Ameristar installation, Empire Fence of Tulsa is here to help… by providing professional service at an affordable price. We’ll be glad to help you a detailed proposal that includes pool fence cost and material specs. Contact Empire to get a quote for your next fence ›
