5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in District of Columbia, District of Columbia.
Verified from official government sources
DC requires a Department of Buildings construction permit for all in-ground and above-ground pools with a water depth of 24 inches or more. DC Health (DOH) regulates semi-public and public pools under DCMR Title 25. Plan review includes barrier compliance, plumbing, electrical (GFCI), and drainage per the 2017 DC Construction Codes.
DC requires a minimum 48-inch barrier around residential pools with water over 24 inches deep under the Property Maintenance Code. Public and semi-public pools require 72-inch barriers under 25-C DCMR 6439. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.
DC pools must comply with the Swimming Pool and Spa Code (12-L DCMR) and the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act). Anti-entrapment drain covers are required. New construction associated with pool structures requires fire sprinklers.
Above-ground pools in DC with water over 24 inches deep are subject to the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools. DOB permits may be required depending on size and permanent installation. Temporary inflatable pools under 24 inches deep are generally exempt from barrier requirements.
Hot tubs and spas in DC require a Department of Buildings electrical permit for the 240V circuit and must meet the same barrier rules as swimming pools (DCMR 12-A Appendix G), unless equipped with an ASTM F1346 locking safety cover. Installation must respect zoning setbacks (typically 5 feet side, 5 feet rear). GFCI protection is mandatory per NEC Article 680.
1 cities in District of Columbia have their own swimming pools & spas rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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