Above-ground pools in Chicago with a water depth greater than 48 inches are classified as private residential swimming pools and must comply with Chicago Building Code 18-29-1204.8, including the 5-foot perimeter fence requirement and building permit.
Under the Chicago Building Code, a 'private residential swimming pool' is any pool on a 1-3 unit residential lot with water depth greater than 48 inches at any point. Above-ground pools meeting this definition require the same 5-foot perimeter fence, self-closing/self-latching gates, and building permit as in-ground pools. Plans must be prepared by a licensed architect or structural engineer. Outdoor pools may only be used between June 1 and September 15, and must be drained and covered outside this period. Two or more means of exit (steps or ladders) must be provided with handrails. Diving boards over 3 feet above water surface are prohibited.
Building a pool without a permit carries fines of $500 to $1,000 per day. Failure to maintain required fencing and safety features results in correction orders and potential fines.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle above-ground pools.
See how Chicago's above-ground pools rules stack up against other locations.
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