Swimming Pools & Spas in Ames, IA (2026)
2 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Ames, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
In the City of Ames, Iowa, building a residential swimming pool requires a permit from the Building Official under the general permit requirement of the Ames Municipal Code, unless the pool is a small prefabricated above-ground unit. Ames Municipal Code Sec. 5.104(9) exempts only prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep holding no more than 5,000 gallons and installed entirely above ground.
Ames Residential Pool Permit Rule
Some RestrictionsAmes Municipal Code Sec. 5.104(9)
Sec. 5.104. BUILDING PERMITS NOT REQUIRED. No building permit is required for: ... (9) Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.
Fencing & Safety Requirements
In the City of Ames, Iowa, every outdoor residential swimming pool must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches above grade with openings that block a 4-inch sphere, under a local amendment to the residential code at Ames Municipal Code Sec. 5.201. Pedestrian access gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing with a self-latching device.
Ames Required Pool Barrier and Gates
Heavy RestrictionsAmes Municipal Code Sec. 5.201(20)
(20) Section R326.1 General is amended by replacing General with BARRIER REQUIREMENTS FOR SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS, AND HOT TUBS FOR ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS ... (b) Outdoor pools. An outdoor pool, including an in-ground, above-ground or on-ground pool shall be surrounded by a barrier which shall comply with the following items 1-15: 1. The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches (1219 ...
Looking for Story County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Ames city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Story County →