Swimming Pools & Spas in Lancaster County, PA (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Verified from official government sources

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

Pool Permits

Lancaster County issues no residential pool permits. A private single-family pool needs a building permit from your municipality under the PA Uniform Construction Code. Only public/commercial pools get a state permit from the PA Department of Health.

Lancaster County PA Swimming Pool Permits

Some Restrictions

28 Pa. Code Section 18.11

A permit shall be obtained from the Department prior to construction or operation of a public bathing place.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Residential pool safety is set by the statewide PA Uniform Construction Code (2021 ISPSC), not the county. Public pools follow the PA Department of Health's 28 Pa. Code Chapter 18, which requires safety equipment, supervision, and permitted operation.

Lancaster County PA Pool Safety Rules

Heavy Restrictions

28 Pa. Code Section 18.1

Public bathing place-An outdoor or indoor place used for amateur, professional or recreative swimming or bathing whether or not a fee is charged for admission or for the use of the place, exclusive of a bathing place at a private, single-family residence which is used solely by the owner of the residence, his family and their personal guests.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Lancaster County ordinances

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