Pool Permits: Colorado Springs vs Manitou Springs
How do pool permits rules compare between Colorado Springs, CO and Manitou Springs, CO?
Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs have similar restriction levels.
Colorado Springs, CO
El Paso County
A building permit from the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department is required before installing any in-ground or permanent above-ground pool, spa, or water feature in Colorado Springs; only prefabricated above-ground pools less than 24 inches deep and not more than 5,000 gallons are permit-exempt.
View full Colorado Springs rules →Manitou Springs, CO
El Paso County
Pima Building Department — actually Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) — issues pool permits for Colorado Springs, El Paso County unincorporated, Fountain, Manitou Springs, Monument, and Woodland Park. Permits required for all in-ground pools, spas, and above-ground pools over 24 inches deep. 2021 IRC and 2021 ISPSC with Colorado amendments enforced.
View full Manitou Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Colorado Springs | Manitou Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Permit authority | Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) | - |
| Permit required | All in-ground and permanent/portable on-ground pools and spas | - |
| Permit exemption | Above-ground pool <24 inches deep and <=5,000 gallons | - |
| Code Section | City Code 7.3.105.A.2.k (pools allowed in residential zones) | - |
| Structural plan | Required for in-ground pools (CO-licensed design professional) | - |
| Office | 2880 International Circle, Colorado Springs; 719-327-2880 | - |
| Authority | - | Pikes Peak Regional Building |
| Code | - | 2021 IRC + 2021 ISPSC |
| Above-Ground | - | Permit if over 24 inches |
| Barrier | - | 48 inch minimum |
| Altitude | - | Affects engineering |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Colorado Springs FAQ
Do I need a permit for a portable above-ground pool?
Only above-ground pools less than 24 inches deep and not more than 5,000 gallons are exempt. Both onground portable (temporary) and permanent in-ground pools above those thresholds require a PPRBD building permit.
Where do I apply for a pool permit in Colorado Springs?
Through the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department at 2880 International Circle (719-327-2880, pprbd.org), which administers building permits for the City of Colorado Springs and surrounding El Paso County.
Are private pools even allowed in my residential zone?
Yes. City Code Subsection 7.3.105.A.2.k allows private swimming pools and/or bath houses as an accessory use in any residential zone, subject to building permit and barrier requirements.
Manitou Springs FAQ
Who issues pool permits in Colorado Springs?
The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD), not the city directly. PPRBD handles Colorado Springs, El Paso County unincorporated, Fountain, Manitou Springs, Monument, and Woodland Park under a 1964 regional building authority.
Do I need a permit for a large inflatable pool?
If the pool exceeds 24 inches in depth at any point, yes — a PPRBD permit and barrier are required. Typical backyard inflatables under 24 inches (like kiddie pools) are exempt but still must not be left filled unattended.
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