How Long Beach Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide
Long Beach maintains 34 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Long Beach falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Pool Permits
Long Beach requires building permits for swimming pool installation. The Mississippi State Department of Health regulates public and semi-public pools under MS Code Ann. §41-26-1.
Key details: Permit Required: Yes, building permit. Setback: 5 to 10 ft from property line. Electrical: Separate permit required. Authority: Local building code.
Unpermitted pool: stop-work order plus $200 to $500 fine. Failed inspection requires corrections before use. Operating without final approval may result in additional penalties.
Fencing Requirements
The William Lee Montjoy Pool Safety Act (Miss. Code §45-43-1 et seq.) sets statewide minimum pool barrier rules that Long Beach enforces in addition to local code. Outdoor residential pools deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a fence or wall at least four feet high with no gaps that pass a 4-inch sphere. Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, open outward from the pool, and have latches at least 60 inches above the ground or with locking hardware. State law expressly does not exempt pool yards from additional local ordinance requirements.
Key details: State Law: Miss. Code §45-43-1 et seq. (Montjoy Act). Min Barrier: 48 inches high. Gate Latch: 60+ inches or lockable (§45-43-9). Gate Swing: Outward, self-closing, self-latching. Code Basis: MS Residential Code Ch. 42 (IRC AG105).
Operating a pool without a compliant barrier is a misdemeanor under state law and triggers building-code stop-work or correction orders. Owners can be held civilly liable for child drownings where barriers were noncompliant.
This is one of the stricter rules in Long Beach's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Safety Rules
Long Beach enforces pool safety requirements including water quality, drain covers, and maintenance standards. The MS State Department of Health oversees public pool safety regulations.
Key details: Drain Covers: VGB Act compliant. Grounding: Electrical code required. Mosquito Control: Maintenance required. Authority: MS Code Ann. §41-26-1.
Public pool violations: $100 to $500 per health code citation. Pool closure orders for immediate hazards. Nuisance pool: abatement notice with fines for non-compliance.
The Bottom Line
Long Beach'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 Long Beach is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Long Beach's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.