Signage

As far as we know, the state of Maryland doesn’t require any signage at residential pools. (Public or semi-private pools are a different story — check up on those codes here.) However, it’s never a bad idea to take extra caution with signs that indicate where it is and isn’t safe to dive, list emergency phone numbers, and warn of hazardous chemicals. This is particularly important if you invite guests over who may not be as familiar as you are with the ins and outs of your backyard oasis.

Fencing

The Maryland Division of State Documents outlines the following fencing/barrier regulations in section 10.17.01.21 of the Code of Maryland Regulations. Enclosures must completely surround the pool and:

• Be at least 6 feet tall when measured on the exterior side.
• Have no more than 4 inches between the ground and the bottom of the barrier.
• Not have any openings larger than 4 inches in diameter that make the barrier easily climbable or passable.
• Fence posts should have a maximum separation of 4 inches.
• Horizontal pieces must be at least 45 inches apart or else be on the inside of the barrier.
• The barrier should not have lattice mesh or decorative cutouts greater than 1.75 inches, while chain link fence mesh should be a maximum of 2.25 inches.
• The main gate must open away from the pool and be lockable, at least 4 feet wide, located at the shallow end of the pool, and use a latch release that is placed at least 54 inches above the ground.
• Any other doors and windows that provide access to the pool area have locks or latches.

Lucky for you, since Rhine is a full-service backyard oasis builder, we’re happy to take on any necessary fencing projects before pool season.

Local Maryland Pool Codes — Montgomery County

To our friends in Montgomery County, there are a few extra things for you to keep in mind based on local regulations. Check out Section 51-15 of the Montgomery County Code for additional steps to take.
Of course, other than Maryland pool codes, ensuring that your pool is in safe working order is a huge necessity. If you missed out on our blog from two weeks ago about Pool Rehabilitation, hop over to that link to learn about fixing up your pool with Rhine. And if you’re looking to build a new pool for this season, check out an old post we did about what you need to know before building a pool in Maryland.

Rhine Pools Knows Maryland Pool Codes

At Rhine Pools, we take pride in setting ourselves apart from your typical pool contractor. After seeing the way other pool contractors led their customers through the runaround, Jay Rhine wanted to give the people what they really wanted. Someone who will be with you, start to finish, and leave you with something better than you could have ever imagined. A new pool in Maryland that makes use of landscape architecture brings a lot more value, not just to your pool, but to your outdoor living and your home as a whole. Are you interested in learning more or getting started with your backyard oasis project? Contact us today to talk with us about what you want to do with your pool installation or remodel. Give us a call at 410.442.2445. Don’t forget to keep with us onFacebook,Google+, and Twitter too!