Comparison
Mesh, metal, or block: which pool barrier should you pick?
Each type can meet Mesa's rules. The choice comes down to whether the barrier is a perimeter wall or an inner fence, how much view you want, and whether you want to remove it later.
This is an independent referral guide. It connects homeowners with independent providers and may receive compensation. It is not a licensed contractor and it does not do the work.
The short answer
For the outer perimeter, pick a block wall. It gives privacy and has no openings or footholds to worry about if it is built smooth. For an inner fence between the house and the pool, pick metal view fencing if it stays up permanently, or mesh if you want to take it down once the children are older.
Rules every type must meet
Mesa's barrier brochure says:
- A 5 foot minimum height, measured on the exterior side, all the way around
- No opening that lets a 4 inch sphere pass
- Gaps under the barrier of no more than 2 inches over soft ground and 4 inches over concrete
- At least 20 inches from the water's edge
Pick a block wall if
- It is the perimeter, and you want privacy.
- You keep it climb proof. Mesa says solid barriers cannot have handholds or footholds, so avoid decorative ledges on the outside.
Pick aluminum or iron view fencing if
- You want to see the pool from the house.
- The design follows the spacing rules. Mesa says that if horizontal members are less than 45 inches apart, they go on the pool side, and vertical spacing cannot exceed 1 3/4 inches. See openings.
- Remember metal parts close to the pool may need bonding. See bonding.
Pick mesh if
- You want a barrier you can remove later.
- You follow the mesh specific rules. Mesa says mesh must be installed per the manufacturer's instructions, no more than 1 inch above the deck, at least 11 wire gauge, with non conductive deck sleeves. See mesh fences.
- You will check it often. A removable fence has posts, sleeves, and latches to inspect regularly.
Gates on any type
Mesa says gates must open away from the pool, self close, self latch, and have locking devices. See gates.
Where we land
Use block for the perimeter, metal for a permanent inner fence with a view, and mesh for an inner fence you may take down. Ask the builder to show the brochure rule each detail meets before the barrier inspection. See barriers before plaster.
Questions
Can a neighbor's wall be my barrier?
It can be part of it if it meets the rules. Check its height on your side of the wall.
Is chain link allowed?
Mesa limits chain link openings to 1 3/4 inches.
Sources
Public pages, linked so you can read the source yourself. Rules change, so confirm the current version with the agency before you rely on it.
Talk through your Mesa project
Share the part of Mesa you live in, the yard size, and anything unusual about the lot, like a slope or a utility easement.