Standards for aboveground and in-ground pools fences

New standards for pool enclosures in Quebec – Effective September 2025

Are you planning to install a pool in your yard soon or do you want to replace an existing fence? In this guide, we will present the main points to look out for when securing the perimeter of your pool according to current standards with an aluminum fence, a glass pool railing or a combination of the two.

Railings and fences for aboveground pools

Fence (enclosure)

If the walls of your aboveground pool are at least 1.2 m high, you don’t have to put a fence around it, unless the structure has support struts. However, you have to secure access to the pool by a barrier, whether this is a staircase, a patio or another type of platform.

Access to an aboveground pool

You can secure access to an aboveground pool in three ways:

• With a ladder equipped with a safety gate that opens outwards and closes and locks automatically. The safety device must be installed on the inside surface of the enclosure, in the upper part of the door.
• With a platform secured by an enclosure at least 1.2 m high that blocks the passage of a spherical object 10 cm in diameter and is impossible for a child to climb. The enclosure must also include a safety gate (see the description in the previous point).
• By a deck attached to the house and designed so that access to the pool is secured by a barrier, railing or fence with the characteristics described in the previous point.

For more info, consult the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Regulation.

Railings and fences for in-ground pools

All in-ground or semi-in-ground pools have to be surrounded by a fence or railing (enclosure) to protect access. The pool railing or fence must:

• Be at least 1.2 m (48 in.) high;
• Block the passage of a spherical object 10 cm (4 in.) in diameter;
• Be free of any element making it easier to climb.

Note that hedges or shrubs are not considered to be an enclosure.

Access gate

Any gate that is part of a pool fence must:

• Be at least 1.2 m high;
• Block the passage of a spherical object 10 cm in diameter;
• Be free of any element making it easier to climb;
• Include a safety device on the inner side, in the upper part of the door, which closes and locks the gate automatically.

For more info, consult the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Regulation.

Around the pool

To prevent children from climbing to access the pool, operating equipment (like the pump and filter) must be located more than 1 m from the wall of the pool or enclosure. The conduits connecting the equipment to the pool must not facilitate access to the pool.

Your pool fence project

Are you starting a pool fence project? We can take care of everything, from taking measurements to installation, or you can order the parts from our shop and do it yourself.

Any questions on installing a pool railing or fence? Contact us!

Patrice Cloutier
Rampes et Balcons president

Patrice Cloutier is the founding president of the Rampes et Balcons company. His 20 years expertise in glass and aluminum railings makes him a trusted advisor to support you for your project.