Building a pool on your property can be incredibly exciting. Whether it’s a place to relax in your backyard or an oasis of tranquillity for your business, swimming pools bring a whole host of benefits to a property.
During the summer months, swimming pools often become a hub of activity for both residential and commercial properties, with people using them to relax, socialise or just enjoy the sun.
However, while you may want to dive straight into the construction process, there’s plenty that you need to think about first. One of these things is a pool permit. In Texas, it’s a legal requirement to have a permit for your pool, and this applies to both commercial and residential properties.
Luckily for you, here at Claffey Pools, we’re experts in all areas of swimming pool construction, installation and design. All of our technicians are incredibly knowledgeable in all the relevant regulations and permits required to build a pool in Texas. The team will be able to talk you through the entire process, helping you handle all the documentation and ensuring everything is in order.
With this in mind, we’ve put together a guide outlining everything you need to know about Texas pool permits.
Do I Need a Pool Permit?
When it comes to installing a swimming pool at your home or commercial property, there are a number of regulations that you must follow and a permit is imperative.
In short, a permit will always be required and within it, a variety of things need to be included. Information you’ll have to supply includes:
- Detailed site plans
- Size of the swimming pool
- Depth of the pool
- Swimming pool dimensions
- Front, side and rear yard setbacks
- A copy of a pool entrapment form (residential properties only)
- A copy of a legally certified plat (residential properties only)
As well as a permit containing all of this information, your pool must also comply with the 2015 International Building Code, 2015 International Plumbing Code and 2017 National Electrical Code.
Additionally, when the plans for your swimming pool are submitted, you also need to inform the local water authorities who will confirm that the pool development is acceptable. Sometimes a public easem*nt may be required, which is where land which is not yours might need to be accessed as part of the construction process. If this is the case, you could be advised to slightly change the location of the pool.
What If I Don’t Have a Permit?
Sometimes, people may be put off from getting a permit. After all, paperwork can be tedious and overwhelming. However, you must never begin work without one. If you do, you could find yourself facing a hefty fine.
Typically, a pool permit will last between six months to a year, so it’s also important to remember to renew it when it does expire.
With the help of Claffey Pools, the process can be made quick and easy. While you will need a permit no matter what part of the state you’re in, the rules and regulations as well as the price can vary from state to state – so it’s important you liaise with an experienced pool builder to ensure you’re complying with all the relevant legislation.
Some of the areas that we cover include:
- Argyle
- Dallas
- Fort Worth
- Frisco
- Roanoke
- Southlake
- Trophy Club
- Weatherford
- Westlake
Do Hot Tubs Need a Permit?
As well as swimming pools, sometimes people will opt to have a hot tub installed in their backyard. If this is something you’re considering, then you may need a permit. More often than not, if the hot tub is prefabricated and above the ground then you will not require a permit.
However, if it is a custom hot tub or below ground then it might need one. If this is the case, speak with your pool builder who’ll be able to advise you on what’s best.
Here at Claffey Pools, we have over 30 years of experience providing customers throughout Texas with their dream pool. Whatever type of pool you’re looking to install, we’re here to help, so contact us today to make use of our expert services.
