How Midland Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Midland maintains 106 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 Midland falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Pool Permits

Midland requires a building permit and health officer sign-off before any swimming pool is erected, constructed, or structurally altered in the city.

Key details: Permit required: Before pool construction or alteration. Health approval: Also required from health officer. Application: Two sets of plans and specs. Fee basis: Project dollar valuation under § 4-1-3.

Building or structurally altering a pool without a permit is unlawful under § 4-5-3; unpermitted construction can be halted by the Building Official and is enforced as a City Code violation.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Every outdoor swimming pool in Midland with water 24 inches deep or more must be enclosed by a fence or wall at least four feet tall with no gap wider than four inches, under Sec. 4-5-5 of the Code of Ordinances. Gates must self-close and self-latch, and any owner, tenant or lessee who fails to install and maintain the barrier is in violation, punishable by up to a $500 fine per day.

Key details: Fence height: At least four feet tall around the pool. Max gap: No opening larger than four inches. Gate hardware: Self-closing and self-latching required on gates. Trigger depth: Applies once pool water reaches 24 inches. Penalty: Up to $500 fine per day of violation.

Violating the fencing requirement, along with any other provision of Chapter 4-5, is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 under Sec. 4-5-10, with each day of noncompliance a separate offense. If the property is owned or occupied by a corporation, that corporation's president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, manager, agent or employee can be held personally and severally liable for the fine.

The Bottom Line

Midland'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 Midland is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Midland'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.