If I install a pool, do I need a permit and what are the regulations?
Yes, anyone wishing to install or build a pool must obtain a permit. The applicant must provide the proposed location of the pool.
Any pool shall be installed or constructed at a minimum distance of two (2) metres from the property lines or wall of any principal building or accessory building.
No pool shall occupy more than thirty percent (30%) of the site on which it is installed or constructed.
In all zones, no swimming pool shall be located within ten (10) metres of the right-of-way of any public road.
No pool shall be installed or constructed under or within three (3) metres of any overhead wiring.
Requirement to install a fence
The installation of a fence around any pool, the edge of which does not reach a height of one meter twenty (1.20) above ground level, is mandatory and the provisions of the following sections apply..
Safety
Every owner of a swimming pool or lessee of a property on which there is a private or semi-private, permanent or prefabricated, demountable swimming pool shall install or cause to be installed, at the same time as the construction or installation of a swimming pool, a fence not less than 1.20 metres from the site and the fence shall completely enclose the perimeter of the area reserved for the swimming pool or around it.
In no case shall the fence be within one (1) meter of the outside edge of the pool.
If a portion of the site is not accessible due to special reasons such as topographical configuration, the fence may be omitted or discontinued upon inspection and approval by the Building Inspector.
Every door to the fenced area where a swimming pool is located shall be equipped with an automatic safety lock to keep the door securely closed and shall be placed out of the reach of children.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, for above ground pools, a deterrent fence may be installed on the edge of the pool under the following conditions
- That the height of this fence is at least 60 cm and so that the base of the pool on the ground at the top of the fence is more than one meter fifty (1.50) high;
- That the materials of which it is composed do not represent any danger of injury to bathers;
- That it is strong enough not to yield to pressure from the outside;
- That it encloses the open perimeter of the pool.