Madison treats above-ground pools over 24 inches deep the same as in-ground pools for permitting and barrier requirements under MGO Chapter 29 and WI UDC. A removable/lockable ladder with a 48-inch pool wall can serve as the barrier.
Above-ground pools in Madison require building permits if capable of holding 24 inches or more of water. The same 48-inch barrier rule applies, but the pool wall itself can count as the barrier if it is at least 48 inches tall and access ladders are either removable and stored when not in use or equipped with a lockable hinged cover. Inflatable and soft-sided pools (Intex, Bestway) that meet the 24-inch water threshold are subject to the same rules. Electrical for the pump must be GFCI-protected. Setbacks in residential zones are typically 10 feet from rear and side lot lines and the pool cannot be placed in a front yard.
Unpermitted above-ground pools can be ordered drained. Barrier violations carry UDC fines.
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See how Madison's above-ground pools rules stack up against other locations.
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