Swimming Pools & Spas in Federal Way, WA (2026)
5 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Federal Way requires building permits for swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs deeper than 24 inches. Permits are issued by the Federal Way Community Development Permit Center under the WA State Building Code.
Federal Way Swimming Pool Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsFencing Requirements
Federal Way requires pool barriers at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates under IRC Appendix G. Barriers are mandatory for pools and spas deeper than 24 inches.
Federal Way Swimming Pool Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsSafety Rules
Federal Way pool owners must comply with the federal VGB Act for anti-entrapment drains, GFCI electrical protection, and WAC 246-260 for public or semi-public pools. Private pools follow state building code.
Federal Way Swimming Pool Safety Rules
Heavy Restrictions16 C.F.R. Part 1450 - Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act Regulations
each swimming pool or spa drain cover manufactured, distributed, or entered into commerce in the United States shall conform to the entrapment protection standards of ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017, American National Standard for Suction Outlet Fitting Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs, approved on August 18, 2017. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by r...
Above-Ground Pools
Federal Way requires permits and barriers for above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches. A pool wall at least 48 inches tall can serve as the barrier if the ladder is removable or locked.
Federal Way Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsHot Tub Rules
Federal Way treats hot tubs and spas like pools under IRC Appendix G. Hot tubs with ASTM F1346 compliant lockable covers may be exempt from a perimeter barrier. Permits, GFCI, and NEC 680 bonding are required.
Federal Way Hot Tub and Spa Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in King County →