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1. Can a safety cover which complies with ASTM F1346 be used with a spa and/or hot tub in lieu of the barrier requirements?

Yes, however, it is the responsibility of the homeowner and/or user of the spa/hot tub to use the safety cover as intended to properly protect against unsupervised child access.

2. If I don't have any children under the age of six, living at home, am I exempt from the barrier requirements?

No. Barriers are required regardless of the age of the occupants (the City does not accept written affidavits regarding age exemptions.)

3. Is a portable and/or inflatable above-ground pool regulated regarding pool barrier requirements?

Yes, unless it is less than 18 inches in depth.

4. If a pool barrier is required, is a building permit required to construct it?

Yes, a building permit is required for the construction of all required pool barriers.

5. I am remodeling and/or adding to my existing residence, and my pool barriers are currently not in compliance. Are they required to be brought up to current code?

Yes, as deemed necessary by the Building Official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants.

6. When during (pool/spa installation) construction should my pool/spa barriers be in place?

Child barriers are required by the building code to be in place before any water is placed in the pool/spa, however, the City highly recommends that the pool/spa barriers be in place at the very start of the construction period. There are potential child hazards during each phase of (pool/spa installation) construction.

7. To prevent possible suction entrapment, what does the code require? And, any City recommendations?

Suction outlets can be extremely dangerous without proper covers/grates. Therefore, these covers/grates must comply with the safety provisions of ANSI/APSP-7. City recommends reading the listing and manufacturer's specifications on all installed pool/spa components. If in doubt, contact the pool/spa installation contractor for verification of installed entrapment avoidance systems and components.

***Please note: Missing or damaged suction outlet covers/grates must be replaced immediately. Pools/spas should not be used until this is done, therefore it is extremely important to include a visual inspection of these components as part of the pool/spa routine maintenance.