Above-ground pools are regulated the same as in-ground pools in unincorporated Boulder County. Any above-ground pool holding water over 24 inches deep meets the ISPSC swimming-pool definition, requires a building permit, and must be enclosed by a compliant 48-inch barrier.
Boulder County Publication B26's swimming-pool definition expressly covers above-ground and on-ground pools: "Any structure intended for swimming, recreational bathing or wading that contains water over 24 inches (610 mm) deep." That means a typical above-ground pool needs a permit and a 2021 ISPSC Section 305 barrier. The pool's own wall may serve as the barrier only if it is at least 48 inches high and the access ladder or steps are removable, lockable, or otherwise secured so a 4-inch sphere cannot pass and children cannot climb in when the pool is unattended.
Installing an above-ground pool over 24 inches deep without a permit or barrier fails inspection and is subject to correction orders and re-inspection fees.
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