Tacoma's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Tacoma, Washington, there are 4 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

Swimming pool permits in Tacoma are issued by Planning and Development Services under TMC Title 2.02 (Building Code, adopting the 2018 IRC and IBC). Per IRC R105.2, prefabricated residential pools less than 24 inches deep are permit-exempt; in-ground and larger above-ground pools require a building permit. Pool barriers must comply with IRC Appendix AG, and barrier fences up to 7 feet are permit-exempt (above 7 feet require a separate permit).

Key details: Code: TMC 2.02 + 2018 IRC/IBC. Permit Exempt (Res): Prefab pools < 24 in deep. Permit Exempt (Com R-3): < 24 in, < 5,000 gal, above ground. Barrier Standard: IRC Appendix AG. Min Fence Height: 48 in (self-closing/latching gate).

Installing an in-ground or larger above-ground pool without a building permit, or failing to install or maintain a code-compliant barrier under IRC Appendix AG, can trigger a stop-work order, mandatory removal or correction, and code enforcement under TMC 2.02. Confirm specific penalty amounts with Planning and Development Services at 253-591-5030.

Fencing Requirements

Tacoma requires all residential swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high under the adopted International Residential Code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Washington State's residential building code applies.

Key details: Barrier Height: 48 inches minimum. Gate: Self-closing, self-latching, outward opening. Latch Height: 54 inches or child-resistant. Openings: No gaps larger than 4 inches.

Non-compliant barriers result in enforcement action and potential fines. New pools must pass barrier inspection before filling.

Compared to other cities, Tacoma takes a harder line on fencing requirements. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Safety Rules

Tacoma enforces pool safety requirements under the adopted building codes. Pools must have compliant drain covers, barriers, GFCI electrical protection, and pass inspections. Building permits are required for all pool construction.

Key details: Drain Covers: VGB Act compliant. Electrical: NEC Article 680, GFCI required. Permit: Required for construction. Stormwater: Management requirements apply.

Safety violations may result in pool closure orders. Unpermitted pools require retroactive permitting and inspections.

This is one of the stricter rules in Tacoma's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools in Tacoma with water over 24 inches deep must meet barrier requirements. The pool wall may count as part of the barrier if the ladder is removable. Electrical connections must be GFCI protected.

Key details: Trigger: Water depth over 24 inches. Barrier: 48 inches from grade. Pool Wall: May count if ladder is removable. Electrical: GFCI required. Stormwater: Discharge management required.

Non-compliant pools face the same enforcement as in-ground installations.

The Bottom Line

Tacoma is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Tacoma, 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 Tacoma's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.