Simpsonville's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Simpsonville, South Carolina, 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
Simpsonville's Zoning Ordinance requires all non-portable pools deeper than 24 inches to be enclosed by a fence, wall, or combination not less than four feet high, with self-latching gates that stay locked when the pool is not in use.
Key details: Minimum height: 4 feet (48 inches). Applies to: Non-portable pools over 24 in. deep. Gates: Self-latching, locked when not in use. Enclosure: Fence, wall, or combination. Citation: Zoning Ordinance sec. 3.3.13(A),(C).
Failure to provide a compliant barrier is a zoning violation; the pool inspection will fail and the city can withhold approval and cite the property owner.
Pool Permits
Yes. Simpsonville adopts the International Building Codes (including the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code) with South Carolina Modifications, so a building permit and inspections are required before installing a pool.
Key details: Permit required: Yes, building permit (sec. 8-3). Code adopted: IBC/ISPSC + SC Modifications (8-41). Where to apply: Planning & Codes / Building Dept.. Fees: Schedule on file in city offices. Pool type: Accessory use, zoning sec. 3.3.13.
Building without the required permit violates sec. 8-42; Code violations are a municipal offense subject to fines and stop-work orders under ch. 8.
Safety Rules
Pool safety is governed by the adopted International Swimming Pool and Spa Code plus the local four-foot barrier and self-latching, locked-gate requirements in Zoning Ordinance sec. 3.3.13. Any pool lighting must be shielded from adjacent properties.
Key details: Governing codes: ISPSC (8-41) + zoning 3.3.13. Barrier: 4 ft minimum, all openings latched. Gates: Self-latching + locked when not in use. Lighting: Shielded from adjacent properties. Drowning prevention: Enclosure + locked gates.
Non-compliant barriers or gates fail inspection and are cited as Code/zoning violations; unsafe or unshielded lighting can also be ordered corrected.
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools are treated as accessory uses. Any non-portable pool deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a four-foot barrier with self-latching, locked gates (sec. 3.3.13), and needs a building permit under the adopted International Codes.
Key details: Classified as: Accessory use/structure. Barrier trigger: Depth greater than 24 inches. Barrier height: 4 feet minimum. Permit: Building permit (sec. 8-3). Setbacks: Per zoning district (sec. 3.3.1).
An above-ground pool without a compliant barrier or permit is a zoning/Code violation subject to correction orders and municipal fines.
Hot Tub Rules
Hot tubs deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a four-foot barrier like pools, but Simpsonville allows a substitute: a lockable cover able to support at least 150 pounds, kept locked when the tub is not in use (Zoning Ordinance sec. 3.3.13(B)).
Key details: Barrier alternative: Lockable cover (150 lb rated). Cover must be: Locked when not in use. Default rule: 4-foot enclosing barrier. Applies at depth: Greater than 24 inches. Citation: Zoning Ordinance sec. 3.3.13(B).
An unfenced hot tub without a compliant lockable cover is a zoning violation; correction can be ordered and fines assessed under the zoning ordinance.
The Bottom Line
Simpsonville'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 Simpsonville is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects Simpsonville'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.