Pool fencing is an important safety tool to protect children. “A fence of at least 4 feet in height should surround the pool or spa on all sides and should not be climbable for children,” the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says. “The water should only be accessible through a self-closing, self-latching gate.”

Requirements and laws vary from state to state. California, for example, requires new or remodeled pools to have a property fence of at least 5 feet tall, no more than 2 inches from the ground and with gaps of less than 4 inches.

Safety doesn’t have to mean ugly, though, as there are an array of options for pool fencing that ensure the barriers don’t detract from the pool. Choose from convenient removable mesh options or an array of aluminum or glass styles and colors to coordinate with the home or to create a fresh look for the outdoor space.