Swimming Pools & Spas in Tempe, AZ (2026)
5 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Tempe, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Tempe requires building permits for pools, spas, and hot tubs. Arizona has strict pool barrier requirements under ARS §36-1681. Inspections required.
Tempe Swimming Pool Permits
Some RestrictionsFencing Requirements
Tempe requires all residential swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 5 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates. This applies to in-ground and above-ground pools, spas, and hot tubs containing water deeper than 18 inches.
Tempe Pool Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 36-1681 (Pool Enclosures; Requirements)
A swimming pool, or other contained body of water that contains water eighteen inches or more in depth at any point and that is wider than eight feet at any point and is intended for swimming, shall be protected by an enclosure surrounding the pool area, as provided in this section. B. A swimming pool or other contained body of water required to be enclosed by subsection A whether a belowg...
Safety Rules
Tempe enforces pool safety regulations including barrier requirements, drain covers, and maintenance standards. Pools must be maintained to prevent becoming health hazards or mosquito breeding grounds. Arizona law also requires pool safety notices.
Tempe Pool Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 36-1681 (Pool Enclosures; Requirements)
A swimming pool, or other contained body of water that contains water eighteen inches or more in depth at any point and that is wider than eight feet at any point and is intended for swimming, shall be protected by an enclosure surrounding the pool area, as provided in this section. B. A swimming pool or other contained body of water required to be enclosed by subsection A whether a belowg...
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools in Tempe must meet the same barrier requirements as in-ground pools if they hold water deeper than 18 inches. The pool walls may serve as part of the barrier if they meet height requirements and ladders are removable or lockable.
Tempe Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 36-1681 (Pool Enclosures; Requirements)
A swimming pool, or other contained body of water that contains water eighteen inches or more in depth at any point and that is wider than eight feet at any point and is intended for swimming, shall be protected by an enclosure surrounding the pool area, as provided in this section. B. A swimming pool or other contained body of water required to be enclosed by subsection A whether a belowg...
Hot Tub Rules
Hot tubs and spas in Tempe are regulated under the swimming pool code and ARS 36-1681. Spas with water over 18 inches deep require barrier protection. Electrical installations need a permit with GFCI protection. Lockable ASTM-compliant safety covers can serve as an alternative to barrier enclosure. Given Tempe's climate, hot tubs are popular year-round.
Tempe Hot Tub and Spa Rules
Some RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 36-1681 (Pool Enclosures; Requirements)
A swimming pool, or other contained body of water that contains water eighteen inches or more in depth at any point and that is wider than eight feet at any point and is intended for swimming, shall be protected by an enclosure surrounding the pool area, as provided in this section. B. A swimming pool or other contained body of water required to be enclosed by subsection A whether a belowg...
Looking for Maricopa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tempe city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Maricopa County →