Swimming Pools & Spas in Annapolis, MD: What Residents Actually Need to Know

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 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of swimming pools & spas, and some of them might surprise you.

Safety Rules

Annapolis pool safety rules include anti-entrapment VGB-compliant drain covers, required depth markings, and prohibition on use during electrical storms. Annual inspection for permitted pools. Bay waterfront pool drainage must comply with Critical Area rules.

Key details: Drain Covers: VGB Act compliant required. Depth Markings: Every 5 feet at pool edge. Diving Zone: 8 feet minimum depth. Critical Area: No discharge to tidal waters.

Non-VGB-compliant drain covers: immediate correction required. No depth markings: code citation. Pool chemical discharge to tidal water: MDE enforcement.

Fencing Requirements

Annapolis follows Maryland's pool barrier law requiring fences at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Building permits required. Chesapeake Bay waterfront pools must address stormwater compliance.

Key details: Fence Height: 48 inches minimum. Gates: Self-closing, self-latching. Permit: Required before construction. State Law: MD Environment §14-201.

Pool without required barrier: $250/day until corrected. Construction without permit: stop-work order and double permit fees.

Compared to other cities, Annapolis takes a harder line on fencing requirements. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools in Annapolis require the same 48-inch barrier fencing as in-ground pools. Steps and ladders must be removable or lockable when the pool is unattended. Building permit required for pools over 24 inches deep.

Key details: Permit Threshold: Over 24 inches deep. Barrier: 48 inches or lockable ladder. HOAs: May prohibit above-ground pools. Critical Area: Drainage compliance required.

Above-ground pool without permit (over 24 inches): stop-work order, permit required. No barrier or lockable ladder: $250/day.

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.