HUD & FHA pool requirements have been historically vague and unclear, leaving appraisers, realtors, and home buyers confused and unsure how to comply. In January 2013, however, HUD released "Frequently Asked Questions Valuation Protocol" with a statement on pools. For functioning pools, the main guidance is:
"At minimum, swimming pools, must comply with all local ordinances (perimeter fencing, covers, etc.)..."
As you can see, this leaves the research up to the appraiser and the lender to decide what is complying with local ordinances and what is not. An important thing to remember is that FHA standards are for health and safety purposes, and FHA inspections are made with this in mind. 
Since the HUD FAQ answer placed weight on local ordinances, we researched California code and found this document called the "Swimming Pool Safety Act." According to this act, any pool constructed or remodeled after January 1, 2007, must have at least 1 of the following 7 safety features:
- isolated from access to home by enclosure
- removable mesh pool fencing that is self-closing, self-latching, and can accommodate a key lockable device
- equipped with approved safety pool cover
- exit alarms on the doors from house that have direct access to pool
- all doors with direct access to pool equipped with a self closing, self latching device
- pool alarm that sounds upon accidental or unauthorized entrance into water
- other means of protection equal to or greater than the above devices
Essentially, there has to be a way to stop little children from getting into the pool without being let in, and lacking this could delay your deal! We hope this has helped answer some of your questions about FHA pool requirements-- as always, don't hesitate to contact us with any questions!
