Minnesota Statewide Rule

Minnesota Swimming Pool Permit and Code Requirements

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Minnesota (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Minn. Stat. 326B.106
Residential code: Minnesota Rules Chapter 1309
Plumbing code: Minn. R. 4714
Public pool license: Minn. Stat. 144.1222
Threshold: 24 inches water depth

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Minnesota Revisor of Statutes

Summary

The Minnesota State Building Code requires construction permits for residential and public pools statewide. Local jurisdictions enforce the code but cannot adopt less restrictive standards under Minn. Stat. 326B.121.

Subd. 1a.Fees. All plans and specifications for public pool and spa construction, installation, or alteration or requests for a variance that are submitted to the commissioner according to Minnesota Rules, part 4717.3975, shall be accompanied by the appropriate fees. All public pool construction plans submitted for review after January 1, 2009, must be certified by a professional engineer registered in the state of Minnesota. If the commissioner determines, upon review of the plans, that inadequate fees were paid, the necessary additional fees shall be paid before plan approval.

Source: Minnesota Revisor of StatutesView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Minn. Stat. 326B.106 and the Minnesota Residential Code (Minnesota Rules Chapter 1309), residential pools holding 24 inches or more of water require permits for excavation, electrical bonding, and gas heater installation. Plumbing permits follow Minnesota Rules Chapter 4714. Public pools serving multifamily housing or businesses must also obtain Minnesota Department of Health construction plan approval and an operating license under Minn. Stat. 144.1222 and Minnesota Rules Chapter 4717. Local amendments cannot weaken these minimum standards.

Violations & Penalties

Constructing without a permit can trigger stop-work orders, double permit fees, and removal requirements. Operating an unlicensed public pool is a misdemeanor with daily fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a backyard pool?

Yes, residential pools 24 inches deep or more require building, electrical, and often plumbing permits under the State Building Code applied through your local jurisdiction.

What about kiddie pools or inflatables?

Temporary pools under 24 inches typically do not require permits, but they must still comply with electrical and barrier rules when applicable.

Can my city add stricter rules?

Cities may add reasonable supplemental requirements but cannot adopt building or plumbing standards less restrictive than the statewide code.

Sources

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