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

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Denver, Colorado, 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

Denver treats residential swimming pools as structures under its adopted Building Code, so construction requires a Building Code Permit Application through Community Planning and Development, and required pool barrier fencing must meet the International Residential and Building Codes.

Key details: Governing code: 2025 Denver Building Code (IRC/IBC). Permit reviewed by: Community Planning & Development (CPD). Pool barrier fencing: Must meet IRC/IBC per § 10-182. Max penalty per offense: $999 fine and/or 300 days jail.

Violating any adopted building or fire code provision is unlawful (DRMC § 10-18); under the Code's general penalty (§ 1-13), each offense can draw a fine up to $999, up to 300 days in jail, or both, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Denver requires every public and limited-access swimming pool to meet minimum health and safety standards covering fencing, swimmer load, swimmer safety, bather control, disinfection and water quality, enforced by the Department of Public Health and Environment under Chapter 51.

Key details: Governing chapter: DRMC Chapter 51, Swimming Pools. License required: From director of excise and licenses. Enforcement: Immediate closure for imminent hazard. Scope: Public/limited-access pools, not private family pools.

Operating without a license, hindering a health inspector's lawful entry, or violating adopted pool safety rules or a manager's written order is unlawful under Sections 51-2, 51-4 and 51-7; a pool posing an imminent health or safety hazard faces immediate closure under Section 51-5.

The Bottom Line

Denver'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 Denver is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Denver 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.