Swimming Pools & Spas in McHenry County, IL (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated McHenry County, Illinois.

Verified from official government sources

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

Pool Permits

McHenry County requires a building permit before anyone builds, enlarges, alters, repairs, moves or demolishes a residential pool or spa in unincorporated territory, under the local amendments to the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code adopted at § 15.60.010. Only replastering, relining or resurfacing an existing pool, and prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep, are exempt from the permit.

Residential Pool Permit Required in McHenry County

Some Restrictions

McHenry County Code § 15.60.010 (International Swimming Pool and Spa Code § 105.1, 105.1.1)

105.1 When required. Any owner, or owner's authorized agent who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish a pool or spa or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required ...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Every outdoor residential pool, spa and hot tub in unincorporated McHenry County needs a barrier at least 48 inches tall under § 8.04.100(B)(3), with openings no wider than 4 inches. Pedestrian access gates must swing away from the pool, self-close and self-latch under § 8.04.100(B)(11), and the McHenry County Department of Planning & Development enforces the standard before the pool can be used.

Pool Barrier & Gate Rules in McHenry County

Some Restrictions

McHenry County Public Health Ordinance § 8.04.100(B)(3), (B)(11)

3. Barrier: The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches above grade measured on the side of the barrier which faces away from the swimming pool. ... 11. Access gates: Access gates shall comply with the requirements of subsections B.1 through B.10 above, and shall be equipped to accommodate a locking device. Pedestrian access gates shall open outwards away from the pool and shall be self-...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All McHenry County ordinances

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