Do I Need a Permit for a Pool Fence in Wisconsin?
Pool fences are required by Wisconsin code for all residential swimming pools and must meet specific height and gate requirements.
Yes, you typically need a permit. Requirements vary by municipality. Check with your local building department for specifics.
Where to Apply
Permit requirements, fees, and processing times vary by municipality. Check the specific requirements for your location:
Browse all jurisdictions →Frequently Asked Questions
Is a pool fence required by law?
Yes. Wisconsin requires a barrier at least 48 inches high around all residential pools. Self-closing, self-latching gates are mandatory.
Can the house wall serve as part of the barrier?
Yes, if doors providing direct pool access have approved alarms or self-closing/self-latching mechanisms.
What spacing is required for fence pickets?
Openings in the fence cannot be large enough for a 4-inch sphere to pass through, preventing small children from squeezing through.
Building in multiple cities?
See permit requirements for any Wisconsin municipality instantly. Compare fees, timelines, and processes side by side across your active jurisdictions.