Roswell's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Roswell, Georgia, 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
Roswell's Unified Development Code regulates any pool holding water over 24 inches deep as a swimming pool, whether above-ground, portable, or in-ground, and applies the same fencing and setback rules to all three.
Key details: Regulated depth: over 24 inches of water. Above-ground pools: fully covered, same as in-ground. Decking setback: 5 ft from side/rear line. Water setback: 10 ft from side/rear line. Front yard: pools prohibited there.
Pool zoning violations fall under UDC § 13.14.4: the City issues a notice of violation with a correction deadline, then can fine up to $2,000 per day and withhold permits, utilities, or a certificate of occupancy until the pool complies.
Fencing & Safety Requirements
Roswell requires every swimming pool, in-ground, above-ground, or the whole property, to be walled or fenced so it can't be accessed uncontrolled from the street or a neighboring yard, a zoning safety standard enforced citywide.
Key details: Barrier required: wall or fence, no gaps. Covers: in-ground, above-ground, hot tubs, spas. Purpose: block street/neighbor access. State code layer: ISPSC adopted, § 5.3.1.
Failing to fence a pool is a UDC violation enforced under § 13.14.4: the City issues a notice with a cure period, then can fine up to $2,000 per day and withhold permits or utility service until the barrier goes up.
The Bottom Line
Roswell'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 Roswell is broadly strict or permissive.
Keep in mind that Roswell can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.