Swimming Pools & Spas in Des Moines, IA (2026)
2 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Des Moines, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Des Moines requires a building permit to construct any swimming pool, spa, or water recreational facility, but only pools capable of holding water more than 24 inches deep count as a regulated 'swimming pool' under the city's adopted pool code.
Des Moines Above-Ground Pool Permit Rule
Some RestrictionsDes Moines Municipal Code § 26-349.1
Insert a new definition in Chapter 2, "Swimming pool" is defined as any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing capable of containing water more than 24 inches deep. This includes in-ground, above-ground, and on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.
Fencing & Safety Requirements
Des Moines requires an ISPSC-compliant barrier around every backyard pool, hot tub or spa deeper than 24 inches, restricting entry to the pool area; spas and hot tubs with a locking safety cover are exempt from the enclosure sections.
Des Moines Pool Barrier Safety Rules
Some RestrictionsDes Moines Municipal Code § 26-349.2
305.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to the design of barriers for restricting entry into areas having pools and spas. Where spas or hot tubs are equipped with a lockable safety cover complying with ASTM F1346, the areas where those spas and hot tubs are located shall not be required to comply with Sections 305.2 through 305.7.
Looking for Polk County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Des Moines city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Polk County →