5 rules for unincorporated Lorain County, Ohio.
Verified from official government sources
Ohio's incorporated cities (Lorain, Elyria) permit private pools as an accessory use by zoning/building permit; unincorporated townships zone under ORC 519. A building permit for the pool structure is required statewide under the Ohio Residential Code.
City of Lorain Zoning Code Section 10.29
Private swimming pools are permitted as accessory uses in residential districts provided that: A. The pool is intended and is to be used solely for the enjoyment of the occupants of the property on which the pool is located and their guests.
In the City of Lorain, an in-ground pool must be enclosed by a fence or wall 4 to 6 feet high with a latched, lockable gate. Statewide, the Ohio residential/building code sets a 48-inch minimum barrier.
City of Lorain Zoning Code Section 10.29(D)
For all in ground pools, the fence or wall shall not be less than four (4) feet or greater than six (6) feet in height above grade level, and shall be equipped with a latched, lockable gate for emergency ingress and egress.
Ohio's residential/building code (Section 3109) requires a 48-inch barrier around residential pools, self-closing and self-latching gates opening away from the pool, and openings too small to pass a 4-inch sphere.
Ohio Building Code Section 3109.4.1, 3109.4.1.7
The top of the barrier shall be not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the swimming pool. Pedestrian access doors or gates shall open outward away from the pool and shall be self-closing and have a self-latching device.
In the City of Lorain, an above-ground pool must be fenced like an in-ground pool or have a side wall/fence at least six feet high with a tilt-up lockable or removable ladder. State barrier rules also apply.
City of Lorain Zoning Code Section 10.29(D)
All aboveground pools shall be fenced as above, or have a side wall, fence or rail not less than six (6) feet in height above grade level, and shall be equipped with a tilt up lockable or removable ladder.
Ohio treats spas and hot tubs as pools subject to the same barrier code, but a spa or hot tub with an approved safety cover complying with ASTM F1346 is exempt from the fence requirement. Lorain's zoning code sets no separate hot-tub rule.
See every category we cover for Lorain County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Lorain County Ordinance Hub →