Swimming Pools & Spas in Snohomish County, WA (2026)
2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Snohomish County, Washington.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Unincorporated Snohomish County requires a building permit before installing an in-ground or deep residential swimming pool. SCC 30.50.103(1)(g)-(h) exempts only prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep, capped at 5,000 gallons and installed entirely above ground; anything bigger or set into the ground needs a permit from the Department of Planning and Development Services.
Swimming Pool Permit Required in Snohomish County
Some RestrictionsSCC 30.50.103(1)(g)-(h)
Permits shall not be required for the exemptions listed in this section. Exemption from permit requirements of these codes shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of the building code, residential code, or any other laws or county ordinances. Work exempt under this provision may still require the applicable permit(s) when l...
Fencing & Safety Requirements
Every swimming or wading pool in unincorporated Snohomish County, aside from hot tubs and spas, must be enclosed by a fence at least four feet high and strong enough to keep children out, under SCC 30.22.130(17)(b). Pools also can't rise more than one foot above grade within a required setback, and SCC 30.23.110(23) sets a separate five-foot minimum setback from every property line for the pool itself.
Snohomish County Pool Fencing Rules
Some RestrictionsSCC 30.22.130(17)(b)
(17) Swimming/Wading Pool (not to include hot tubs and spas):. For the sole use of occupants and guests. (a) No part of the pool shall project more than one foot above the adjoining ground level in a required setback; and (b) The pool shall be enclosed with a fence not less than four feet high, of sufficient design and strength to keep out children.
Swimming Pools & Spas by City in Snohomish County
2 cities in Snohomish County have their own swimming pools & spas rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Snohomish County ordinances
See every category we cover for Snohomish County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Snohomish County Ordinance Hub →