Local guide
Phoenix pool rules that apply in Ahwatukee
A summary of public City of Phoenix and State of Arizona information. The current city documents control.
Barrier basics
- Fence five feet high, measured from the outside
- No openings a four inch ball can pass through
- Bottom clearance up to two inches over soil, or four inches over a solid surface such as concrete
- Gates self closing and self latching, able to take a lock, swinging out from the pool, latch at least 54 inches high
Source: Phoenix pool barrier requirements.
Between the house and the pool
Phoenix describes three options: an inner barrier fence around the entire pool, using the house wall with compliant doors and windows, or a motorized safety cover that complies with ASTM F1346. Doggie doors are not allowed when the house wall is part of the barrier. Once a barrier is approved, Phoenix says it must stay for the life of the pool, and a new permit is required to change or remove it.
Draining and backwashing
Phoenix says to drain or backwash into the home's sanitary sewer cleanout, not the street, alley, or right of way, and not to make a permanent connection. See Phoenix draining and backwashing guidance.
State law and licensing
Arizona's pool enclosure statute is A.R.S. 36-1681. Check any builder on the Arizona Registrar of Contractors website, and contact Arizona 811 before digging.
Ask about your Ahwatukee yard
Say the neighborhood or ZIP code, the yard size, and whether the lot slopes or backs onto open desert.