California has taken significant steps to enhance residential swimming pool safety. At the beginning of 2025, lawmakers passed SB-552, a law designed to reduce drownings—particularly among young children—by requiring specific safety barriers and devices around pools.
Why SB-552 Matters
Drowning is the second leading cause of death among California children ages one to four and the leading cause of brain injury-related hospitalizations resulting from lack of oxygen. These sobering statistics underscore why the state has prioritized pool safety legislation.
The law requires all new or remodeled pools, as well as pools in homes being sold, to have at least two drowning prevention safety features installed. This layered protection approach recognizes that no single safety measure is foolproof, and multiple barriers significantly reduce the risk of tragic accidents.
The Seven Safety Features Under SB-552
SB-552 specifies seven approved safety features, of which homeowners must implement at least two:
- Pool Enclosure – A 60-inch tall fence with a climb-resistant surface, featuring self-closing and self-latching gates that open outward, effectively isolating the pool from the home and yard.
- Removable Mesh Fencing – Compliant fencing that carries ASTM certification and includes lockable gates.
- Approved Safety Pool Cover – Covers that meet ASTM standards and are designed to prevent pool access.
- Exit Alarms – Alarms installed on doors and windows that sound continuous or verbal warnings when opened toward the pool area.
- Self-Closing and Self-Latching Devices – Devices installed on pool-access doors with release mechanisms positioned no lower than 54 inches from the ground.
- Pool Alarms – Certified water entry alarms capable of detecting unauthorized pool access.
- Other Certified Protection Devices – Additional devices that have been independently tested and labeled to meet or exceed ASTM or ASME standards.
Important Compliance Notes
There are several key points homeowners should understand about SB-552 compliance:
- Certain safety feature combinations are prohibited if they do not provide two distinct layers of protection.
- Pool isolation fences remain the most effective and thoroughly studied drowning prevention measure available.
- Home inspectors check for visible safety features as required by SB-552, but they do not verify standards compliance or test device functionality.
What California Homeowners and Buyers Should Do
If you own a home with a pool or are considering purchasing one, take these steps to ensure compliance:
- Confirm that the pool meets SB-552 requirements before any sale, remodel, or new construction.
- Have an InterNACHI-certified home inspector confirm that visible safety features are present during your inspection.
- Consult with local officials and pool professionals for detailed guidance on code compliance.
- Upgrade existing safety devices as needed to meet the requirements outlined in SB-552.
InterNACHI Inspection Disclaimer
InterNACHI home inspections include visual, non-invasive evaluations of pool safety features and barriers. Inspectors do not confirm whether devices comply with ASTM, ASME, or Health and Safety Codes, nor do they test alarms or verify device functionality. Home inspection findings should be used as guidance, and homeowners should rely on licensed professionals for full compliance verification.
Protect your family and comply with California’s latest pool safety law, SB-552. Reach out to an InterNACHI inspector today to ensure your pool is safe and compliant. Together, we can make California pools safer for everyone.