How Burlington Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide
Burlington maintains 113 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Burlington falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Fencing & Safety Requirements
Burlington requires a fence or solid enclosure at least four feet tall around any permitted pool, with gaps no larger than six inches, self-closing and self-latching gates, and latches set at least three feet high. Aboveground pools with a four-foot wall for the full perimeter skip the fence.
Key details: Governing section: City Code § 115-18(B)(2). Minimum fence height: 4 feet. Max opening in fence: 6 inches square. Gate requirement: Self-closing, self-latching device. Latch height: At least 3 feet above ground.
An unfenced or improperly latched pool violates § 115-18(B)(2), which like the rest of Chapter 115 is enforced under § 115-26 through the Chapter 1, § 1-4 general penalty: $5 to $500 forfeiture plus costs for a first offense and $10 to $1,000 for a repeat within a year, with each day the barrier remains noncompliant treated as a separate offense under § 115-24.
Pool Permits
Burlington requires a permit before installing any aboveground or in-ground swimming pool, with the only exemption being a movable wading pool under two feet deep. City Code § 115-18 also bars pools from front yards and within five feet of any lot line before the Building Inspector will approve an application.
Key details: Permit required for: Aboveground and in-ground pools. Exempt: Wading pools under 2 feet deep. Setback: 5 feet from any lot line. Fence height: At least 4 feet, gaps under 6 inches. Latch height: At least 3 feet above ground.
Building without the required permit, or building a pool that violates the setback, fencing, or electrical rules of § 115-18, is enforceable by the Building Inspector. Under the City's general penalty, § 1-4, an uncorrected violation carries a forfeiture of not less than $5 nor more than $500 for a first offense, with each day a violation continues charged as a separate offense.
The Bottom Line
Burlington'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 Burlington is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Burlington's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.