Pool Fence Laws & Requirements in Allentown, Bethlehem, & Easton, PA

Thinking of installing a pool—or already have one—in Allentown, Bethlehem, or Easton? You’ll need a fence that’s not only safe but also meets Pennsylvania and local codes. Ekren Fence ensures your pool area is secure, compliant, and ready for summer.

Pool Fence Laws & Requirements in Allentown, Bethlehem, & Easton, PA

• Pennsylvania Statewide Pool fence Requirements

 •    Any pool with water deeper than 24 inches is legally considered a pool and requires a compliant barrier   .

    •    The fence must be at least 48 inches high, surrounding the entire pool area   .

    •    Above-ground pools can use their walls as the barrier if those walls reach 48 inches and have a removable or lockable ladder   .

    •    For in-ground pools, gates must be self-closing and self-latching, and if your house serves as part of the enclosure, doors must include audible alarms   .

• Key Safety Features That Matter

Based on ICC and ISPSC standards adopted by Pennsylvania:

    •    Max gap between pickets or panels: under 4 inches to prevent small children from squeezing through   .

    •    Bottom clearance: no more than 2 inches between the ground and the fence  .

    •    Climb resistance: horizontal rails must be spaced at least 45 inches apart to deter climbing, or vertical pickets spaced tightly enough to eliminate footholds   .

    •    Gate hardware: gates must open outward, latch automatically, and the latch release must be at least 54 inches off the ground   .

    •    Clear zones: no objects, structures, or equipment should be placed within 3 feet of the fence to prevent climbing aids  

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Pennsylvania Pool Fence Code: What the Law Requires

Pennsylvania follows the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), which outlines minimum requirements for safety and access control around pools. Here's what the law says:

•    Latch Placement: At least 54 inches above ground.

    •    Picket/Panel Spacing: Less than 4 inches apart.

    •    Ground Clearance: No more than 2 inches from bottom rail to ground.

    •    Climb Resistance: No horizontal rails within 45 inches of each other to prevent climbing.

    •    Door Alarms: Required if the house acts as part of the pool barrier.

• Alarm must sound for at least 30 seconds at 85 dB, with a manual bypass control mounted at least 54 inches high.

Quick Reference Pool Fence Compliance Chart

Requirement	Specification
Pool Depth Definition	24 inches or more
Fence Height	Minimum 48 inches
Picket / Panel Spacing	Less than 4 inches
Bottom Cap	Max 2 inches
Gate Operation	Self - Closing Hinges
Latch Heights	Miinimum 54 inches above ground
Clear Zone	3 ft free of climbable objects
Permits	Required for pools & tall fences

City-Specific Pool Fence Info: Allentown, Bethlehem & Easton

Each city in the Lehigh Valley enforces Pennsylvania’s pool fence code — but with local permitting rules and review timelines that homeowners need to know.

🏙️ Allentown, PA

• A building permit is required for any pool or pool fence installation.

• The City’s Building Safety Bureau must approve plans before construction begins.

• You may need zoning approval depending on fence height or location.

🔗 Allentown Fence Ordinance

🏙️ Bethlehem, PA

• Permits are required for any pool over 24 inches deep and the fencing that surrounds it.

• Fencing plans are submitted to the City’s Code Enforcement Office.

• Note: Residents report delays in processing, so apply early.

🔗 Bethlehem Building Code Info

🏙️ Easton, PA

• Fence installation must comply with city zoning laws, especially if it faces a public street.

• As with Allentown and Bethlehem, all fences must meet the ISPSC pool barrier code.

• Permits are required.

🔗 Easton Code & Zoning

Why Pool Fencing Matters

Pool fencing isn’t just about staying legal — it’s about saving lives.

• Drowning is the #1 cause of accidental death for children under age 5.

• Properly installed fences reduce the risk by up to 83%.

• Homeowner insurance policies may require code-compliant fencing for coverage.

  
  

  Why Choose Ekren Fence?

  As a leading fence company serving Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the entire Lehigh Valley, we help homeowners:

  • Navigate local permit requirements

  • Choose from a variety of code-compliant vinyl, aluminum, or steel pool fences

  • Install safe, attractive, and durable barriers

  • Avoid fines, delays, and costly do-overs

  Ready to Secure Your Pool the Right Way?

  Don’t risk non-compliance or unsafe installations. Let Ekren Fence design and install the perfect, code-approved pool fence for your home.

  👉 Call now for a FREE estimate o

• r📅 Request a consultation online today!

  Serving Allentown | Bethlehem | Easton | Lehigh Valley