How Des Moines Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Des Moines maintains 170 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Des Moines falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Hot Tub Rules

Des Moines requires a building permit for all in-ground and above-ground swimming pools and spas, including hot tubs. A safety barrier at least 48 inches high with a self-closing, self-latching gate must fully enclose the pool area before use.

Key details: Permit required: Yes — all pools/spas/hot tubs >24" depth. Barrier height: 48 inches minimum (4 sides). Gate requirement: Self-closing, self-latching, latch pool-side. Max opening size: 4 inches. Governing code: Des Moines Code Ch. 26, Div. 5.

Building or operating a pool without a required permit: stop-work order, mandatory correction, and fines per Ch. 26 enforcement provisions. Non-compliant barriers subject to immediate correction orders.

Pool Permits

Des Moines requires a building permit from the Permit and Development Center (602 Robert D Ray Drive) for any swimming pool, hot tub, or spa capable of holding water deeper than 24 inches. Pools must comply with the 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as adopted in Chapter 26 (Buildings and Building Regulations) and be enclosed by a barrier fence at least 48 inches high.

Key details: Code Adopted: 2015 ISPSC via Ch. 26. Permit Office: Permit & Development Center. Phone: 515-283-4200. Permit Trigger Depth: Over 24 inches. Min Barrier Height: 48 inches.

Installing a pool, spa, or hot tub deeper than 24 inches without a Chapter 26 building permit, or maintaining a non-compliant barrier, can trigger stop-work orders, removal of water, and civil penalties through the Des Moines Municipal Court. The Permit and Development Center may require after-the-fact permitting and barrier upgrades before a final inspection is approved.

Fencing Requirements

Des Moines requires all swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 4 feet high. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. The barrier must prevent passage of a 4-inch sphere and not be easily climbable by toddlers.

Key details: Min Height: 4 feet. Gates: Self-closing, self-latching. Openings: No 4-inch sphere passage. Climbability: Not easily climbable. Above-Ground: Ladder barriers required.

Building code violation. Fines and orders to install compliant barriers. Pool may be required to be drained until barriers are installed. Liability exposure for drowning incidents.

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

Safety Rules

Des Moines requires pool permits, safety barriers, and compliance with Iowa Public Health code for all residential swimming pools. Pools must maintain proper chemical levels and drainage to prevent health hazards.

Key details: Permit: Required for all pools. Drain Covers: VGB Act compliant. Electrical: GFCI protection required. Drainage: Cannot flood neighbors. Maintenance: Must prevent stagnant water.

Building without a permit: municipal infraction. Safety violations may require immediate correction. Unmaintained pools: public health nuisance.

This is one of the stricter rules in Des Moines's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools in Des Moines require permits and must meet barrier requirements. Pools with sides at least 4 feet high may use the wall as a barrier, but ladder and stair access must have lockable gates or removable ladders.

Key details: Permit: Required for permanent pools. Wall as Barrier: If 4 ft+ above grade. Ladders: Must be removable or gated. Small Pools: Under 24 in. may be exempt. Setbacks: From property lines required.

Unpermitted pool installation: municipal infraction. Safety barrier deficiencies must be corrected. Electrical violations are serious safety hazards.

The Bottom Line

Des Moines is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Des Moines, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

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