Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Swimming Pools & Spas

Swimming Pools & Spas in Charleston, WV: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Charleston 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. Charleston has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of swimming pools & spas, and some of them might surprise you.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Charleston's zoning ordinance requires community swimming pools to be enclosed by a wall or fence between 6 and 10 feet high that can be locked whenever the pool isn't staffed by a guard.

Key details: Fence height: 6 to 10 feet. Gate/fence: Must be lockable when unguarded. Pool setback: 100 ft from residential lot line. Applies to: Community/membership pools, not private.

Violating the zoning ordinance is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $50 to $500 (Sec. 37-020); the city can also seek a court injunction to force compliance or removal.

Pool Permits

Charleston requires new residential pools to comply with the 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, adopted as part of the city's building code under Sec. 14-33, so a building permit is required before construction begins.

Key details: Governing code: 2018 Intl. Swimming Pool & Spa Code. Adopted by: Sec. 14-33, city building code. Permit issued by: City of Charleston building department. General violation fine: $10-$500, up to 30 days.

Building a pool without a permit violates the adopted code. Under the Code's general penalty (Sec. 1-8), violations carry a fine of $10 to $500, up to 30 days imprisonment, or both, per day.

The Bottom Line

Charleston'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 Charleston is broadly strict or permissive.

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