Making the decision to buy and install a pool in your backyard or house is an exciting proposition. What’s far less exciting is making sure your new pool and all its surrounding structures and buildings are built to meet building code standards and have all the necessary permits. What makes it even more confusing is that every municipality and state will have different regulations regarding permits and building codes. Therefore it’s imperative that you check with your local bylaws to make sure your new addition meets all the necessary standards. Keep reading below to find out if an above ground pool needs a permit.
The Size of Your Pool
Typically the larger the pool and the more construction necessary make it all the more likely it is that you’ll need to secure permits. Getting the proper permits not only protects your neighbors and the municipality, but they are also there to help protect you and your home. The specifics will depend on your exact location, but smaller, above ground, portable pools may not need any permits whatsoever. If you plan to install a larger, portable above ground pool, you might require a permit, but you may also be able to obtain it yourself. For in-ground concrete pools, you will likely need a permit which also may require the hiring of a licensed contractor. A licensed contractor will be able to provide all the paperwork required to obtain the permit.
Electricity
If you’re planning to install electric lines near your pool, your project will have to meet the National Electric Code. There will be a variety of requirements that need to be met depending on the exact specifics of your swimming pool installations and your local and state laws. These could include the installation of GCFI outlets, the type, and depth of electrical wire piping, weatherproof disconnects and bonding of metals near the pool. Once again, check with your local regulators.
Do You Need A Fence?
Certain locales require fences of a certain stature to be built around an outdoor pool. You’ll need to check your local bylaws to find out the exact requirements, but in a state such as Florida, all above ground pools that are more than 42 inches deep and all in-ground pools must be surrounded by a fence that’s lockable and at least 4 feet tall. On top of that, all doors leading to the pool must be alarmed.
Dependent On Your Locale
Once again, the type of permits you need, or even if you need them at all, will depend on where you’re located. Every state and municipality have different rules when it comes to building permits surrounding swimming pools. Make sure to check with your local authorities to find out the specifics pertaining to your area.
Now that you know about permits and above ground pools, download a buyer’s guide to learn more about our models.