Swimming Pools & Spas in Albuquerque, NM (2026)
5 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Albuquerque, New Mexico, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Albuquerque requires a building permit from the Planning Department's Building Safety Division for residential in-ground pools, plus barrier compliance under the New Mexico Residential Code. Public and semi-public pools must additionally obtain an operating permit under Albuquerque Code Chapter 10, Article 3, administered by the Environmental Health Department.
Swimming Pool Permits in Albuquerque
Some RestrictionsFencing Requirements
Albuquerque ROA Ch. 10, Art. 3 — pools over 3 ft deep or 5,000 gallons must be enclosed by a barrier at least 6 ft high. Gates must be 6 ft with self-closing latch at 54 inches. Chain link must be 11-gauge minimum. Vertical bars max 4 inches apart.
Albuquerque Pool Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsSafety Rules
Albuquerque residential pools require four-sided barriers, drain anti-entrapment devices, and door alarms where the house forms part of the barrier, per 2018 IRC Appendix G.
Albuquerque Pool Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsAbove-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools in Albuquerque must comply with fencing requirements if over 3 ft deep or 5,000 gallons. The 6-ft barrier height is measured from outside grade. NM Residential Code defines pool as any structure over 24 inches deep. Building permit required.
Albuquerque Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsHot Tub Rules
Albuquerque hot tubs holding over 24 inches of water require pool barriers or ASTM F1346 safety covers, and electrical installations need permits and GFCI protection.
Albuquerque Hot Tub Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Bernalillo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Albuquerque city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Bernalillo County →