Redmond's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Redmond, Washington, there are 5 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
Redmond pools and spas over 24 inches deep need a 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward. No gap larger than 4 inches. Follows IRC Appendix G adopted by Washington.
Key details: Minimum Height: 48 inches. Gate: Self-closing, self-latching, outward. Opening Rule: No 4-inch sphere passage. Latch Height: 54 inches. Hot Tub: ASTM F1346 cover OK.
Non-compliant barrier: building code violation enforceable under RMC 15.04, with civil penalties up to $500 per day. May also create civil tort liability to owners.
This is one of the stricter rules in Redmond's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Pool Permits
Redmond requires a building permit for any pool (in-ground or above-ground) with water depth over 24 inches. A separate WA L&I electrical permit is needed for pumps, heaters, and lighting.
Key details: Permit Threshold: Depth over 24 inches. Code Basis: WA Building Code / IRC Appendix G. Electrical: L&I separate permit. City Division: Planning and Permitting. Contact: Redmond (425) 556-2441.
Construction without permit: stop work order plus double permit fees under RMC 15.04. Failure to pass final inspection: denial of certificate of completion.
Compared to other cities, Redmond takes a harder line on pool permits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Hot Tub Rules
Redmond hot tubs over 24 inches deep need a building permit. A locking ASTM F1346 safety cover meets the barrier rule. A WA L&I electrical permit is required for the 240V circuit and GFCI.
Key details: Permit Trigger: Over 24 inches deep. Barrier Option: ASTM F1346 locking cover. Electrical: L&I 240V GFCI. Disconnect: 5-10 ft within sight. Drain Rule: No storm drains.
No permit: stop work under RMC 15.04 plus double fees. Missing locking cover: barrier violation. Illegal discharge: stormwater violation under RMC 13.08.
Above-Ground Pools
Redmond above-ground pools over 24 inches deep need a building permit and an IRC Appendix G barrier. The 48-inch pool wall can serve as the barrier if the ladder is removable or lockable.
Key details: Permit Trigger: Depth over 24 inches. Wall as Barrier: Allowed if 48 inches. Ladder: Removable or lockable. Setback: Typically 5 feet. Drain Rule: No storm drains.
No permit or non-compliant barrier: stop work under RMC 15.04 and double permit fees. Illegal discharge: stormwater violation under RMC 13.08.
Safety Rules
Redmond pools follow IRC Appendix G barriers, ASTM F1346 covers, and the federal VGB Act drain rules. Public pools (apartments, HOAs) also meet WAC 246-260 inspected by Public Health Seattle-King County.
Key details: Federal Law: VGB Act (public pools). State Public Pool: WAC 246-260. Private Barrier: IRC Appendix G. Cover Standard: ASTM F1346. Enforcer: Public Health Seattle-King County.
Private pool barrier violation: building code enforcement under RMC 15.04. Public pool VGB violation: CPSC federal enforcement. Public pool WAC 246-260 violation: Public Health permit suspension.
Compared to other cities, Redmond takes a harder line on safety rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
The Bottom Line
Redmond is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Redmond, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
These rules come from Redmond's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.