Permit Required

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A permit is required for any structure intended for swimming, recreational bathing or wading containing water over 24 inches deep. This includes in-ground or above-ground swimming pools, hot tubs, spas, or fixed-in-place wading pools.

To obtain a permit you must submit an application, at least two (2) copies of a plot plan, detailed drawings of the proposed pool, and all required fees. The Building Inspector will review the request, and issue a permit if the proposed work meets all requirements. Some inspections may be required.

BASIC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

General

Public pools, spas, and hot tubs must be completely surrounded by a 48 inch high fence. Private pools, spas, and hot tubs must be surrounded by a 48 inch high barrier, which may be a fence, wall, or the exterior of an above ground pool structure. A power pool cover or a hot tub or spa cover complying with ASTM F 1346 may also be used. A property boundary fence may also be used to serve as a required barrier, but must meet all safety requirements, or must be upgraded to meet all safety requirements.

Barriers

Any barrier including fences, walls, or exterior walls of pool structures must be at least 48 inches high. Any openings in a barrier cannot allow a 4 inch sphere to pass through. The maximum mesh size for a chain link fence material, when used, is 2.25 inch squares. No more than a 2 inch gap may exist below a barrier. Any horizontal members of a fence must be on the pool side. The finished side of any fence must face out. There can be no ledges, crevices, or other features on the outside of any barrier, that would permit climbing. No structures, equipment, or similar objects materials that would permit climbing can be located near any barrier.

If the exterior wall of a dwelling unit is used as part of the barrier any doors must have an audible alarm that complies with the Building Code, or a power pool cover complying with ASTM F 1346 must be used. Audible alarms must be activated whenever the door and its screen are opened. The audible alarm must sound for at least 30 seconds, and be capable of being heard over normal household activities. The alarm must automatically reset in all conditions. The alarm must be equipped with a manual means of deactivation for a single opening. The deactivation cannot last more than 15 seconds, and the deactivation switch must be located at least 54 inches above the threshold of the door.

Gates

All gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and outward opening. Gate latches closer than 54 inches to the ground must be located not more than 3 inches from the top of the gate. No openings in the barrier or gate may be more than 1/2 inch within 18 inches of the release mechanism.

Ladders/Steps

When above-ground pool structures are used as a barrier the ladders or steps must be removable, secured, or locked to prevent access.

Yard Areas/Setbacks

Swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, and any structures or equipment associated with them may be located only in a rear yard and must be set back at least 10 feet from the property line. This setback does apply to boundary fences which are also being used as safety barriers.

Other Requirements

Swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs are not permitted in an Industrial Zoning District. Plumbing installations, electrical installations, and any construction associated with a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub, must comply with the city’s building codes.