Aurora's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Aurora, Colorado, there are 5 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Pool Permits

Aurora requires a building permit and electrical permit for all in-ground pools and for above-ground pools over 24 inches deep. State Public Pool rules (CRS 25-1.5-209) cover shared pools.

Key details: Permit threshold: Over 24 inches deep. Code: 2018 ISPSC, IRC R326. Electrical: Separate permit required. Setbacks: 5 ft side, 10 ft from house. Public pools: CRS 25-1.5-209 license.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://www.auroragov.org/business_services/building_division) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

This is one of the stricter rules in Aurora's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Hot Tub Rules

Hot tubs and spas in Aurora require a building and electrical permit. A locking safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 may substitute for a 4-foot barrier under the ISPSC.

Key details: Permit: Building plus electrical required. Cover standard: ASTM F1346. Free chlorine: 2-4 ppm. Bonding: Metal within 5 feet. Drain discharge: Dechlorinate first.

Fencing Requirements

All pools and spas over 24 inches deep in Aurora must be surrounded by a 4-foot barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates per the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

Key details: Barrier height: 48 inches minimum. Gate: Self-closing, self-latching. Latch height: 54 inches minimum. Hot tub alternative: ASTM F1346 cover. Code: ISPSC as adopted.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/ISPSC2018) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Aurora actively enforces its fencing requirements requirements.

Safety Rules

Aurora pools must meet ISPSC barrier, anti-entrapment, and alarm requirements. Public and HOA pools follow Colorado Public Swimming Pool rules including lifeguard and water-quality standards.

Key details: Anti-entrapment: ANSI/APSP-16 drain covers. Public pool law: CRS 25-1.5-209. Chlorine: 1.0 - 5.0 ppm. pH: 7.2 - 7.8. Attractive nuisance: Enforced for vacant pools.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://cdphe.colorado.gov/retail-food-establishments/swimming-pools) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

This is one of the stricter rules in Aurora's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools over 24 inches deep require a building permit, a 4-foot barrier (or lockable ladder with 48-inch wall), and electrical permit for pumps or heaters.

Key details: Permit threshold: Over 24 inches. Wall-as-barrier: 48 inches minimum. Ladder: Removable or lockable. Setback: 5 feet from property line. Discharge: Dechlorinate before draining.

The Bottom Line

Aurora is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Aurora, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

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