Swimming Pools & Spas in Annapolis, MD

If you live in Annapolis or are thinking about moving there, swimming pools & spas are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Annapolis has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of swimming pools & spas, and some of them might surprise you.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Annapolis treats backyard hot tubs and spas as swimming pools under Chapter 10.28: a private, family-only hot tub needs a protective enclosure -- a 4-foot fence with a self-latching gate or a City-approved locking cover -- but no operating permit.

Key details: Private hot tub barrier: 4-foot enclosure, self-latching gate. Alternative to fencing: Locking spa cover accepted. Shared/public spa barrier: 6-foot enclosure required. Private hot tub permit: None if family-only, no fee. Enforcing authority: Health Officer (approving authority).

Violating Chapter 10.28 -- no enclosure, or operating a public spa without a permit and licensed operator -- is a misdemeanor under Section 10.28.160, punishable by a fine or imprisonment set by City Council resolution.

Pool Permits

Annapolis strikes the standard code exemption for small pools: § 17.12.021 replaces the adopted Swimming Pool and Spa Code's permit-exempt-work section, so above-ground and portable pools need a City permit the same as an in-ground pool, there is no size or depth threshold.

Key details: Permit exemption: struck: all pool work needs one. Enclosure height: 4 ft minimum, self-latching gate. Electrical permit fee: $45 for above-ground pool wiring. Permitting agency: Dept. of Planning and Zoning.

Installing or wiring a pool without the required permit is a municipal infraction carrying a civil fine set by City Council resolution under § 17.05.010(D); each day of noncompliance is a separate offense.

The Bottom Line

Annapolis's swimming pools & spas rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Annapolis is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Annapolis's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.