Auto-Latching Gate

Self-closing means the gate returns to the closed position on its own after being opened. Auto-latching means the latch engages automatically when the gate reaches the closed position, securing it without manual latching. Pool code requires both — a gate that closes but doesn't latch, or latches but doesn't close, does not comply.

The latch must be installed on the inside face (pool side) of the gate so it cannot be reached through the fence by a small child from the outside. The latch must also be positioned at a minimum height of 54 inches from the ground, or enclosed in a housing that prevents a child from accessing it from the exterior.

Micah Taintor recommends solid steel strike bars with padlocks over standard keyed latches for security applications. Key-operated latches in Iowa can freeze in winter, making them unreliable. Steel strike bars accept a padlock, have no keyed mechanism to freeze, and are significantly harder to force open than standard key latches.