How Green Bay Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Green Bay maintains 101 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Green Bay falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Pool Permits

Green Bay requires a zoning permit before installing any permanent aboveground or in-ground pool, pond, or spa, plus a 25-foot front and 10-foot side/rear setback and a compliant safety fence.

Key details: Permit required: Permanent installs only, not portables. Front setback: 25 feet minimum. Side/rear setback: 10 feet minimum. Fence height: 48 to 96 inches.

Building without a permit or skipping the required fence is a zoning violation under Sec. 44-198, punishable by the Sec. 1-6 forfeiture, $1 to $500 per offense, with each day counted separately.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Any Green Bay pool, pond, or spa that needs a permit must be fenced 48 to 96 inches high, able to resist 200 pounds of force, with a compliant locking gate.

Key details: Fence height: 48-96 inches. Strength: Withstands 200 lbs of force. Max gap: 6 inches. Gate: Locking door/gate required. Exemption: Pools predating 4/20/2004.

The Building Inspection Division can withhold or revoke a pool permit for noncompliant fencing, and an unfenced permitted pool is enforceable as a code violation subject to a written correction order.

The Bottom Line

Green Bay'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 Green Bay is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Green Bay 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.