Swimming Pools & Spas in King County, WA (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 6 cities in King County, Washington.

Verified from official government sources

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

Pool Permits

In unincorporated King County, an above-ground pool that can hold water more than 24 inches deep is regulated as a swimming pool under the Washington State Residential Code Appendix G/AG105 (WAC 51-51). It requires a building permit and a barrier at least 48 inches tall. The pool wall can serve as the barrier when it is 48 inches or taller, but ladders must be removable, lockable, or secured.

King County Above-Ground Pool Rules

Some Restrictions

King County Department of Local Services, Permitting Division — Residential Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs and Spas (February 2019), Items P12 and barrier exemption

Building permits are required for most residential pool installations. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a single-family residence, that are less than 24-inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons, and are installed entirely above ground, are EXEMPT from permits. An above ground pool over two feet deep, provides the barrier or the barrier is mounted on top of the pool's structure and the ...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Unincorporated King County requires private pools, hot tubs and spas over 24 inches deep to be fully enclosed by a 60-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates.

King County Pool Barrier Rules

Some Restrictions

King County Code § 16.14.480

Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than twenty-four inches (610 mm) in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least sixty inches (1,524 mm) in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such areas shall be self-closing and self-latching.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗