Pool Permits: Boulder vs Longmont
How do pool permits rules compare between Boulder, CO and Longmont, CO?
Boulder has fewer restrictions than Longmont.
Boulder, CO
Boulder County
Boulder requires building permits for pools, spas, and hot tubs. Inspections required for electrical, plumbing, and barriers.
View full Boulder rules →Longmont, CO
Boulder County
Longmont requires a building permit for any swimming pool (in-ground or above-ground over 24 inches deep), spa, or hot tub. Permits are issued by Building Services at 385 Kimbark Street under the city's adopted 2021 International Codes (effective January 1, 2022). Pool barriers, electrical bonding, and gas/plumbing all require inspection.
View full Longmont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boulder | Longmont |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required for all pools | - |
| Above-Ground | If >24" deep | - |
| Inspections | Electrical, barrier, final | Underground, electrical bond, gas/plumbing, final barrier |
| Code | IBC with CO amendments | - |
| Permit Required | - | All swimming pools over 24 in deep; all spas and hot tubs |
| Adopted Code | - | 2021 IBC / IRC / IFC (effective Jan. 1, 2022) |
| Permit Issuer | - | Building Inspection Division, 385 Kimbark St. |
| Phone | - | (303) 651-8332 |
| Online Portal | - | https://aca.ci.longmont.co.us/CitizenAccess/ |
| Required Submittals | - | Site plan/ILC, barrier details, electrical bonding, structural plan (in-ground) |
| Next Code Cycle | - | 2024 I-Codes effective July 1, 2026 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boulder FAQ
Do I need a permit?
Yes. All in-ground and most above-ground pools require building permits.
What about portable hot tubs?
Portable units may be exempt. Check with Boulder building department.
Longmont FAQ
Do I need a permit for a swimming pool in Longmont?
Yes. The city requires a building permit for any swimming pool, spa, or hot tub. Pools are listed as 'additions' on Longmont's permit-requirements page and hot tubs as 'appliances' requiring a permit.
Which building code applies to my Longmont pool?
The 2021 International Building Code and 2021 International Residential Code (with IRC Appendix V swimming-pool provisions), both adopted effective January 1, 2022. The 2024 I-Codes will take effect July 1, 2026.
Where do I apply for a pool permit?
Apply in person at the Development Services Center, 385 Kimbark Street (8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays), or online through the Citizen Access portal at aca.ci.longmont.co.us/CitizenAccess/. Call Building Inspection at (303) 651-8332 with questions.
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