Swimming Pools & Spas in Philadelphia, PA (2026)
4 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
A Philadelphia building permit is required to install most in-ground and above-ground pools and spas; small prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep and under 5,000 gallons are exempt, and accessory one-family pools can use a no-plans EZ permit if they meet the L&I conditions.
Swimming pool and spa building permit
Some RestrictionsCity of Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections, EZ Permit Standards: Pools and Spas (PB_010_F)
EZ Permit Standards: Pools and Spas. Obtain permits for above-ground or in-ground swimming pools and spas (including hot tubs) accessory to an Existing One Family Dwelling without submitting plans by meeting the Conditions and Design Limitations below. (Deviations will require submission of plans to the Department with your permit applications.) Conditions: The pool or spa, accompanying structu...
Fencing Requirements
Every Philadelphia pool, spa, or hot tub must be restricted by one of three approved barrier options, the standard being a 48-inch-high enclosure with a self-closing, self-latching gate that swings away from the pool.
Pool barrier and gate requirements
Heavy RestrictionsCity of Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections, EZ Permit Standards: Pools and Spas (PB_010_F)
Barrier Options. Access to pools, spas and hot tubs must be restricted to prevent against potential drowning accidents. One of the three barrier options shown below is required for any pool, spa or hot tub. Option #1: Pool is enclosed. 48" high barrier. Self-closing and latching gate, swinging away from the pool. Option #2: Pool is used as a barrier (Above Ground only). Pool is at least 48" dee...
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools in Philadelphia are subject to the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools under §PM-303. Pools with water deeper than 24 inches require a 48-inch barrier. The zoning code does not permit pools in front or side yards, and pools must be at least 2 feet from any property line.
Philadelphia Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsHot Tub Rules
Hot tubs and spas in Philadelphia must comply with §PM-303 safety requirements. Units with water deeper than 24 inches need a 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates. Hot tubs with an ASTM F 1346 compliant safety cover are exempt from the barrier requirement. Electrical work requires an L&I permit.
Philadelphia Hot Tub & Spa Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Philadelphia County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Philadelphia city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Philadelphia County →