Highland Park's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Highland Park, Illinois, 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.

Fencing Requirements

Swimming pools in Highland Park require building permits and must be enclosed by a fence at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates per local building code and state law.

Key details: Fence Height: 4 ft minimum (local code). State Minimum: 42 inches (IL Private Swimming Pool Enclosure Act). Gates: Self-closing, self-latching required. Floodplain: WDO permit may be required. Permit: Via Civic Access Portal.

Pool barrier violations are treated seriously due to child safety. Violations carry immediate fines of $250–$1,000 and mandatory correction within 48 hours. Repeated non-compliance may result in pool condemnation orders.

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

Safety Rules

Swimming pool construction in Highland Park requires building permits and compliance with adopted building codes. Chapter 98 (Bathing Beaches and Swimming Pools) contains specific regulations.

Key details: Code: Highland Park MC Ch. 98. Permit: Required for all pool construction. Drain Covers: Anti-entrapment required (VGB Act). Sanitary: NSWRD permit may be required. Contact: Building Division: 847-432-0808.

Penalties per Chapter 98.999.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools with minimum 42-inch walls may be exempt from separate fencing under Illinois state law. Building permits still required in Highland Park for all pool types.

Key details: State Exemption: 42-inch wall height exempts from separate fence. Access Points: Ladders/stairs must be removable or lockable. Permit: Required for all pool installations. Submittal: Via Civic Access Portal.

Unpermitted permanent above-ground pool: $200–$500 fine plus required inspection. Missing barriers: $250–$1,000 per day until corrected. Electrical code violations: immediate correction order.

The Bottom Line

Highland Park'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 Highland Park is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Highland Park's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.