Pool Permits: Manchester vs Nashua
How do pool permits rules compare between Manchester, NH and Nashua, NH?
Manchester has fewer restrictions than Nashua.
Manchester, NH
Hillsborough County
Manchester requires building permits for swimming pool installation. NH building codes adopted under RSA 674:51 govern pool construction, with requirements varying by pool type and size.
View full Manchester rules →Nashua, NH
Hillsborough County
Residential swimming pool permits in Nashua are issued by the Department of Building Safety under NRO Chapter 105, which adopts the 2021 International Building Code, 2021 International Residential Code, and 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code per New Hampshire's State Building Code (RSA 155-A, as updated by HB 1681 effective December 31, 2024). NRO Sec. 105-22.A.(2) treats 'in-ground swimming pools' as part of the building permit fee schedule (residential at $0.18 per square foot, $50 application fee). Electrical permits for in-ground pools cost $60 per NRO Sec. 105-22.C.(1)(g). Public pools are also regulated by NH DES under RSA 485-A:26 and Env-Wq 1100 per NRO Sec. 105-26.B.
View full Nashua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Manchester | Nashua |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Building permit for most pools | - |
| Electrical Permit | Separate permit required | - |
| Setbacks | 5 to 15 feet from property lines | - |
| Authority | RSA 674:51 building permits | - |
| Building Permit Authority | - | NRO Sec. 105-22.A.(2) - in-ground pools included |
| Building Fee (Residential) | - | $0.18 per square foot + $50 application fee |
| Electrical Permit (Pool) | - | $60 residential in-ground (Sec. 105-22.C.(1)(g)) |
| Adopted Pool Code | - | 2021 ISPSC (NRO Sec. 105-25; RSA 155-A) |
| Public Pool State Authority | - | RSA 485-A:26; Env-Wq 1100 (Sec. 105-26.B) |
| No-Permit Penalty | - | 100% surcharge up to $275 residential / $750 commercial |
| Permit Contact | - | Dept. of Building Safety - 603-589-3080 |
| Address | - | 229 Main St, 2nd Floor, Nashua NH 03060 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Manchester FAQ
Do I need a permit to install a pool?
Yes, most pools require a building permit in Manchester. Electrical and plumbing permits may also be needed.
Do above-ground pools need permits?
Generally yes if over 24 inches deep. Check Manchester building department for specific thresholds and requirements.
Nashua FAQ
Do I need a permit to install a swimming pool in Nashua?
Yes. NRO Sec. 105-22.A.(2) lists 'in-ground swimming pools' in the building permit fee schedule (residential $0.18 per square foot, $50 application fee), and NRO Sec. 105-22.C.(1)(g) requires a $60 electrical permit. The adopted ISPSC (NRO Sec. 105-25) governs design and barrier requirements. Permits are issued by the Department of Building Safety at 229 Main Street, 2nd Floor.
What if my pool serves more than just my family?
Public pools and spas are subject to additional state oversight per NRO Sec. 105-26.B: 'Public Swimming Pools and Spas shall also be regulated by NH DES Public Pool and Spa Program in accordance with RSA 485-A:26 and Env-Wq 1100 Public Bathing Place.' Residential pools serving only one or two families fall under the ISPSC residential provisions.
What if I build a pool without a permit?
NRO Sec. 105-22.A.(14) imposes a '100% of applicable fee, but not to exceed $275 Residential / $500 $750 Commercial' surcharge for permits issued after construction started without a permit. Additional penalties under NRO Chapter 74 and RSA 676:15-17-b apply per NRO Sec. 105-6.
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