New regulations for hot tubs, spas and pools begin on July 1

New state regulations to further protect small children from tumbling into swimming pools and hot tubs go into effect July 1.

The state already requires barriers for pools and spas with water more than 2 feet deep, but the new regulations adopted by the State Building Code Council include more restrictions. They specify that pools or spas must have a 4-sided barrier at least 4 feet high with a self-latching gate out of a child's reach. The latch should be either 54 inches from the bottom or at least 3 inches below the top of the gate on the pool side.

The regulations also require removable steps or ladders for above-ground pools and approved, locking safety covers for spas and hot tubs.

Supervision and barriers help prevent most drownings with toddlers, the state said.

Local jurisdictions will be enforcing the code and working with homeowners on compliance.

For an illustrated fact sheet about the new regulations, see sbcc.wa.gov/sbccindx.html and click on "State Building Codes."

Contact information for local building officials can be found at www.wabo.org/jurisdiction/map.html.

Nicole Tsong: ntsong@seattletimes.com