How Bessemer Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Bessemer maintains 40 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Bessemer falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Safety Rules

Bessemer requires building permits for pool construction through the Building Department. The city enforces the 2015 IBC suite. Electrical, plumbing, and fencing inspections are required. All contractors must have a Bessemer business license.

Key details: Building Permit: Required for all new pools. Minimum Permit Fee: $26. Contractor License: Bessemer business license required. Building Code: 2015 IBC / 2011 NEC.

Safety violation: $250 to $1,000. Pool closure order possible. Criminal liability for injury due to non-compliance.

Fencing Requirements

Bessemer follows the Alabama building code (IBC/IRC-based) requiring a minimum 48-inch barrier around all outdoor pools. Jefferson County may impose additional requirements. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching at 45+ inches above grade.

Key details: Minimum Barrier Height: 48 inches above grade. Max Ground Gap: 2 inches. Gate Latch Height: 45+ inches. Building Code: 2015 IBC suite.

Non-compliant fencing: $250 to $1,000. Immediate correction required. Pool closure order possible until compliant.

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

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools in Bessemer must comply with the same 48-inch barrier requirements as in-ground pools. Building permits are required for permanent installations. All barrier standards from the adopted building code apply.

Key details: Barrier Requirement: Same as in-ground (48 in. min). Permit: Required for permanent installations. Self-Closing Gate: Required on all pool enclosures. Contact: Building Dept., 1700 3rd Ave N.

Unpermitted pools: removal or retroactive permit with double fees. Safety violations: immediate correction required. Fines $100 to $500.

The Bottom Line

Bessemer'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 Bessemer is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Bessemer's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.