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

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Clarksville, Tennessee, there are 2 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

Every swimming pool in Clarksville needs a permit before installation, in-ground or above-ground. The city requires a minimum ten-foot setback from property lines, five feet from the house, and no encroachment into easements or right-of-way.

Key details: Permit: Required before installation. Property line setback: Ten feet minimum. House setback: Five feet minimum. Easements: Pools not permitted within. Electrical permit fee: $32 for pools, hot tubs.

Zoning violations draw a civil fine up to fifty dollars per day under Sec. 11.9, and failure to obtain required permits may result in enforcement action by Building and Codes.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Clarksville treats a permanently installed spa or hot tub as a pool for permit purposes. Tennessee goes further for shared tubs: a hot tub at an apartment complex, subdivision or club is a Type D public pool needing a state health permit.

Key details: Permanent spa: City pool permit required. Portable inflatable tub: Not a permanent installation. Shared or HOA hot tub: Type D public pool. State permit: Local health department, Montgomery County. Public tub barrier: Four feet, self-latching gates.

State pool permits can be revoked by the Commissioner after a hearing for serious or repeated violations under Rule 1200-23-5-.04(4), effective ten days after written notice.

The Bottom Line

Clarksville'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 Clarksville is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Clarksville can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.