Swimming Pools & Spas in Chicago, IL (2026)
2 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Chicago, Illinois, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Chicago exempts small accessory swimming pools from a building permit only if the water is 48 inches deep or less and holds no more than 5,000 gallons at 90% capacity. Deeper or larger pools, including most in-ground and many above-ground models, require a full building permit before installation.
Chicago's Small Pool Permit Exemption
Some RestrictionsMunicipal Code of Chicago § 14A-4-402.1 (Exterior Work, item 4)
Swimming pools accessory to a Group R-5 occupancy that have a water depth of 48 inches (1219 mm) or less and a 90% water volume not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L). 5. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems. 6. Playground equipment accessory to a building of Group R occupancy. 7. Landscape plants and vegetation. 8. Ha...
Fencing & Safety Requirements
Chicago requires a building permit before installing a hot tub or spa deep enough to count as a swimming pool, plus a self-latching 5-foot fence, and requires it be kept clean, sanitary, and in good repair.
Chicago Hot Tub and Spa Enclosure Rules
Some RestrictionsChicago Municipal Code §§ 18-29-1204.3, 18-29-1204.4.5
It shall be unlawful to proceed with the construction, installation, enlargement or alteration of any private residential swimming pool or appurtenance without a building permit... Pools shall be completely enclosed by a fence or walls erected along the perimeter of the pool deck... Fences and gates shall be at least 5 feet (1525 mm) in height above the grade level outside the enclosure... All ...
Looking for Cook County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chicago city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Cook County →