Swimming Pool

      This handout is a compilation of some of the standard requirements based on the State Building Code and City Ordinance for projects of this type.  This information packet does not contain all the specific codes for construction and should only be used as a guide. The permittee is responsible to meet all code requirements applicable to each project.

Submittals:

• Permit Application-Pool
• Site plan (including):
  • Location of pool
  • Location of house
  • Accessory Structures
  • Fence
  • Location of filter unit, pump, heating unit, and wiring/outlets
  • Elevations and final finish around pool
  • Overhead or underground wiring,
  • Utility easements
• Construction plans (for in-ground pools)
• Electrical Permit (if applicable)
• Plumbing Permit (if applicable)
• Mechanical Permit (if applicable)
• Fence Zoning Permit (if applicable)
• Owner Waiver (if owner performing work)

Typical Requirements:

Enclosure Fence: All pools to be constructed or already constructed shall be surrounded by a fence or wall of not less than four (4) feet nor more than six (6) feet in height.  The fence shall be of a type not readily climbed by children.  A dwelling house or accessory building may constitute part of the enclosure.  An above ground pool with a side wall height of four (4) feet or greater does not require a fence.   All gates or openings shall be self-closing and have a self-latching device for security. Pool gates shall have locking devices for off-season or nonuse.

Lifesaving and Emergency Equipment

• One ring buoy not less than 15 inches in diameter with a 3/16-inch rope attached; said rope shall be equal to the greater dimension of the pool.
• One life pole, or shepherds’ crook type pole, at least 10 feet long with blunt ends.

Above Ground Pools: Shall be protected in such a way that access or entry to the pool can be secured when not in use.

City Water Supply: There will be no cross-connections of the city water supply with any other source of water supply for the pool. The line from the City water supply to the pool shall be protected against backflow of polluted water by means of either an aid gap, vacuum breaker or other adequate device to prevent back siphonage.

Outdoor Pool Enclosures: Outdoor pool enclosures, permanent or inflated shall not exceed 18 vertical feet above the pool deck and shall conform to the Uniform Fire Code.

Setback Requirements: Pools or their outer most appurtenances shall not be located within 10 feet of any side or rear lot line nor within six (6) feet of any principal structure or frost footing. Pools shall not be located within any front yard.

Lighting, Ventilation, and Electrical: When underwater lighting is used, such lights will be spaced to provide illumination so that all portions of the pool and pool bottom may be readily seen without glare. All electrical wiring shall conform to the National Electrical Code of the National Fire Protection Association and shall be approved by the State Electrical Inspector, with reference to Article 680-20 (National Electrical Codes).

Overhead Wiring Clearance: Any overhead wiring shall not be installed above the swimming pool or surrounding area extending 10 feet horizontally from the pool edge, or diving structure, observation stands, towers or platforms.

Pool Filters: Every pool shall be equipped with a recirculating system capable of filtering the entire contents of the pool in twelve (12) hours or less.

• Filters shall be capable of maintaining the clarity of the water through an eight (8) foot depth.
• Filter capacity shall be such that it need not be cleaned more frequently than once every four days under proper conditions of water and operation.
• All filters shall be equipped with at least one pressure vacuum or compound gauge which shall be positioned in such a way as to determine the differential across the filter and the need for cleaning.
• All pressure filter systems shall be equipped with an air release at the high point in the system.
• Operating instructions shall be posted on every filter system. All valves shall be properly designated indicating their purpose.
• When dissimilar metals are used in the construction of the filter, which set up galvanic currents, then suitable provision shall be made to resist electrolytic corrosion.
• Filters shall be so designed and installed that they can be readily disassembled, and the filter elements removed.