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

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Goodyear, Arizona, there are 5 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.

Fencing Requirements

ARS 36-1681 requires pool barriers at least 5 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Gate latches at 54 inches minimum. No 4-inch sphere passage. The Goodyear Zoning Code determines specific barrier requirements. Applies to all pools built after June 1992.

Key details: Height: 5 feet minimum. Gate Latch: 54 inches, self-closing. Opening: No 4-inch sphere passage. House Doors: Self-closing with alarm/lock. State Law: ARS 36-1681.

Non-compliant barriers result in failed inspections and enforcement orders.

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

Pool Permits

Goodyear requires building permits for all pool installations. The Building Safety Division processes permits and conducts inspections. Pools must comply with adopted building codes and ARS 36-1681 barrier requirements.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes for all pool installations. Process: Building Safety Division. Barrier: ARS 36-1681 compliance required. Inspections: Multiple required.

Building without permits results in stop-work orders, fines, and required retrofit.

Safety Rules

Goodyear enforces comprehensive pool safety under Arizona law. ARS 36-1681.01 mandates drain covers. ARS 36-1682 adds requirements for homes with children under 6. Arizona has one of the highest child drowning rates nationally.

Key details: Drain Covers: Required (ARS 36-1681.01). Children Under 6: Additional requirements (ARS 36-1682). Drowning Risk: AZ has high child drowning rates. Maintenance: Owner responsible for all safety equipment.

Non-compliant safety features result in code enforcement action and orders to correct.

This is one of the stricter rules in Goodyear'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 must comply with ARS 36-1681 barrier requirements. Walls 5+ feet high may serve as the barrier if access is controlled. Removable ladders must be secured when unattended. Permits needed for permanent installations with utilities.

Key details: Barrier Law: ARS 36-1681 applies. 5-Foot Walls: May serve as barrier if access controlled. Ladders: Must be secured when unattended. Permits: Required for permanent installations.

Non-compliant barriers may result in enforcement citations.

Hot Tub Rules

Hot tubs require electrical permits for 240V installations. GFCI protection mandatory. Lockable safety covers may serve as barriers. Without a qualifying cover, 5-foot barrier required per ARS 36-1681. Setbacks from property lines apply.

Key details: Electrical Permit: Required for 240V. GFCI: Mandatory. Safety Cover: May serve as barrier when locked. Without Cover: 5-foot barrier required. Setbacks: Property line setbacks apply.

Electrical work without permits poses safety hazards and results in code enforcement.

The Bottom Line

Goodyear 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 Goodyear, 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 Goodyear'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.