Caldwell, ID Swimming Pools & Spas: Above-Ground Pools (2026)

Under Caldwell City Code 10-01-10, a swimming pool includes 'an above-surface pool, having a depth of more than thirty inches (30') below the level of the surrounding land' as well as in-ground pools more than eighteen inches (18') deep - so a typical above-ground pool more than 30 inches deep is treated as a regulated swimming pool. City Code 10-12-03-1(3)C requires all pools, in all zoning districts, to be set back ten feet (10') from every property line, and the accessory-use table in Code 10-12-03-1(5) lists 'swimming pools, private, when in conformance with other codes' as permitted in the interior side yard and rear yard (not the front yard or street-side yard). Barriers for above-ground pools are governed by the adopted building code - City Code 12-01-01 adopts the 2018 International Residential Code, including Appendix G, which addresses how the pool structure walls and any required fencing or removable/lockable ladder satisfy the barrier requirement. Because an above-ground pool more than 30 inches deep meets the city's pool definition, a building permit and inspection generally apply. Owners should verify with the Building Safety Division whether the pool wall alone, or additional fencing/ladder controls, are needed to meet the 48-inch barrier standard for their specific installation.