Lakeville, MN Swimming Pools & Spas: Above-Ground Pools (2026)

Lakeville regulates above-ground pools under the same Section 11-21-5.G pool standards. A permit is required for any pool (above- or below-ground) that is 24 inches deep at any point and exceeds 150 square feet of surface area. The general rule is that all permitted pools must have a barrier to prevent uncontrolled child access. For above-ground pools, the city provides relief: the fencing requirement need only be provided around the means of access (such as a ladder or stairs) on above-ground pools which have four-foot (4') high, vertical or outward-inclined side walls. In other words, if the pool wall itself is at least 4 feet high and vertical or inclined outward, the wall functions as the barrier and only the access point must be secured with a compliant gate or removable/lockable ladder. Above-ground pools also have more lenient utility setbacks: 3 feet from a well, 10 feet from a septic tank, and 10 feet from a drainfield (versus 20 feet, 10 feet and 20 feet for below-ground pools). Standard residential setback rules still apply: the pool and any deck more than 30 inches above grade must be 10 feet from adjoining lots and other structures, cannot be in a front yard, easement or buffer yard, and a separate electrical permit is required. Pool footing and final inspections apply, and the barrier must be inspected and approved before the pool is filled.