Swimming Pools & Spas in Harris County, TX (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in Harris County, Texas.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Harris County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Pool Permits

Harris County requires a building permit for all swimming pool construction in unincorporated areas. Pools must maintain clearance from utility easements and on-site septic systems. Inspections are required during and after construction.

Harris County Pool Permits (Unincorporated)

Light Restrictions

Texas Health and Safety Code Sec. 757.003 and 757.004 (Pool Yard Enclosures and Gates)

Sec. 757.003. ENCLOSURE FOR POOL YARD. (a) Except as otherwise provided by Section 757.005, the owner of a multiunit rental complex with a pool or a property owners association that owns, controls, or maintains a pool shall completely enclose the pool yard with a pool yard enclosure. (b) The height of the pool yard enclosure must be at least 48 inches as measured from the ground on the side awa...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Harris County requires pool barriers of at least 48 inches high with no more than 4-inch gaps, per the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and IRC. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Unprotected pools can also be cited as nuisances under state law.

Harris County Pool Fencing Requirements (Unincorporated)

Light Restrictions

Texas Health and Safety Code Sec. 757.003 and 757.004 (Pool Yard Enclosures and Gates)

Sec. 757.003. ENCLOSURE FOR POOL YARD. (a) Except as otherwise provided by Section 757.005, the owner of a multiunit rental complex with a pool or a property owners association that owns, controls, or maintains a pool shall completely enclose the pool yard with a pool yard enclosure. (b) The height of the pool yard enclosure must be at least 48 inches as measured from the ground on the side awa...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗