Basic Requirements

• A building permit is required for all in-ground pools of 2 feet or greater in depth. However, a zoning permit is not required. 
• The pool must be located in the rear yard. It must also be a minimum distance from property lines equal to the depth pf the pool adjoining such property lines.
• A building permit is not required to erect a cyclone, chain link or wood fencing enclosing the pool.
• Pool water must be properly treated and free of scum, debris, and foreign matter. Discharge water must not create a nuisance to an adjoining property.
• Please reference the additional information page

Application Procedure

1. Complete a building permit application with the following information:
• Location of Property where the swimming pool is to be erected
  (i.e. house number and street name)
• Explain construction as "Proposed Swimming Pool"
• Explain USE as "Single Family Dwelling"
• Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the owner, contractor, and person filing the application
• Estimated cost of construction
• Pool contractor license number
• Three (3) copies of construction drawings, showing all dimensions and necessary engineering details to properly install the in-ground pool.
  (Note: The seal of an architect or engineer registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is required to be affixed to the construction drawings.)
• Three (3) copies of professional quality plot plans, drawn to scale
2. Submit a $100 permit fee
3. After you obtain a permit for construction of your pool, call the L & I District Office in your area to schedule an inspection.
4. Apply in person at the following location:
   Municipal Services Building
   Permit Services Division
   1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd,
   Concourse Level
   215-686-2471
   NOTE: In addition to obtaining a building permit for the pool, the contractor is also obtain separate permits for any plumbing and electrical work associated with the pool construction.

Safety Regulations

1. The pool must have a barrier at least 48-inches in height, with self-closing and latching gates that swing away from the pool.

2. If the wall of the dwelling is part of the barrier and includes a door, you must have at least ONE of the following:
• A door with an alarm
• A self-closing and latching door (with a release mechanism 54-inches or more above the floor) that swings away from the pool area.
• An approved power safety cover
• Alternative approved devices.

[ Above Ground ] | [ In-Ground ] | [ Additional Information ]