Glen Burnie's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Glen Burnie, Maryland, there are 3 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.

Safety Rules

Anne Arundel County requires building permits for pool construction. Plans must be submitted to the Permit Center at 2664 Riva Road, Annapolis. Pool barrier violations are investigated by the Dept. of Health within 10 business days of a complaint. Ground clearance under barriers must not exceed 2 inches.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, building permit and plans. Permit Center: 2664 Riva Road, Annapolis (410-222-7700). Complaints: Investigated within 10 business days. Ground Clearance: Max 2 inches under barrier.

Non-compliant safety: correction order. Fines $250 to $1,000. Disclosure required at sale.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Glen Burnie actively enforces its safety rules requirements.

Fencing Requirements

Anne Arundel County requires a 48-inch minimum barrier completely surrounding residential pools. Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and lockable. Dwelling walls serving as barriers must have UL 2017 alarmed doors with deactivation switches at 54 inches or higher. Chain link mesh must not exceed 2.25 inches.

Key details: Barrier Height: 48 inches minimum. Gate Requirements: Self-closing, self-latching, locking. Door Alarms: UL 2017 listed, deactivation at 54 inches. Max Opening: 4-inch sphere may not pass through.

Non-compliant barriers: immediate correction. Fines $100 to $500. Significant liability for drowning incidents.

This is one of the stricter rules in Glen Burnie'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 taller than 48 inches are exempt from additional barrier fencing in Anne Arundel County as long as the ladder is detachable. Pools under 48 inches require standard barrier compliance. Spas with safety covers are also exempt from barrier requirements.

Key details: 48+ Inch Walls: No additional fence if ladder removed. Under 48 Inches: Standard barrier requirements apply. Permit: Building permit required. Spa Exemption: Exempt with safety cover.

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

The Bottom Line

Glen Burnie is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Glen Burnie, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Glen Burnie'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.