Penn Hills's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, there are 2 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.

Pool Permits

Penn Hills requires anyone installing an above-ground portable pool over 100 cubic feet to register it with the Department of Code Enforcement and get a permit, though unlike in-ground pools, there is no permit fee.

Key details: Threshold: pools over 100 cubic feet. Requirement: registration + permit, no fee. Fencing: required unless emptied/covered. Enforced by: Dept. of Code Enforcement.

Erecting a portable pool without registering and obtaining the free permit is enforced by the Department of Code Enforcement, which may order compliance or pursue a Chapter 1428 penalty under § 1428.99.

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Penn Hills requires every private swimming pool to be enclosed by a four-to-six-foot fence with gaps under two inches and self-closing, self-latching gates to keep small children out.

Key details: Fence height: 4 to 6 feet. Max gap: 2 inches (2.5" picket). Gates: self-closing, self-latching required. Enforcer: Department of Code Enforcement.

Failing to fence or maintain a compliant barrier, gate, or self-latching device violates § 1428.05; Code Enforcement can revoke the pool permit, with a separate offense for each day a violation continues.

The Bottom Line

Penn Hills'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 Penn Hills is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Penn Hills'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.