Swimming Pools & Spas in Dunwoody, GA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Dunwoody 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. Dunwoody has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of swimming pools & spas, and some of them might surprise you.

Fencing Requirements

Dunwoody residential pools must comply with Georgia's pool barrier requirements under the adopted International Residential Code (IRC). Pools deeper than 24 inches must have a 48-inch minimum barrier fully enclosing the pool. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Building permits required.

Key details: Code: IRC (Georgia Residential Code). Barrier Height: 48 inches minimum. Gate Requirements: Self-closing, self-latching. Ground Clearance: Max 4 inches. Permit Required: Yes.

Non-compliant fencing: $250 to $1,000. Immediate correction required. Pool closure order possible until compliant.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Dunwoody actively enforces its fencing requirements requirements.

Safety Rules

Pool safety standards in Dunwoody follow the IRC and National Electrical Code. All pool electrical work must be permitted and inspected. Anti-entrapment drain covers (VGB-compliant) are required. Pools must be maintained to prevent mosquito breeding as required by DeKalb County health codes.

Key details: Code Authority: IRC; National Electrical Code. Drain Covers: VGB-compliant required. Electrical Permit: Required. Mosquito Control: Required per DeKalb Co. health codes.

Safety violation: $250 to $1,000. Pool closure order possible. Criminal liability for injury due to non-compliance.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches in Dunwoody require the same 48-inch barrier as in-ground pools. The pool walls may serve as the barrier if they are at least 48 inches tall with secured/removed access ladders when the pool is unattended. A building permit is required.

Key details: Barrier Required: Yes if pool >24 inches deep. Barrier Height: 48 inches minimum. Ladder Rule: Secure or remove when not in use. Permit Required: Yes.

Unpermitted pools: removal or retroactive permit with double fees. Safety violations: immediate correction required. Fines $100 to $500.

The Bottom Line

Dunwoody'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 Dunwoody is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Dunwoody's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.