Philadelphia above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches require a building permit and must meet 48-inch barrier rule. Pool wall may serve as barrier if 48 inches high with removable/lockable ladder.
Above-ground pools over 24 inches deep are treated identically to in-ground pools for barrier and permit purposes under IRC Appendix G. If pool wall is 48 inches or higher, the wall itself satisfies barrier requirements provided the access ladder is removable or lockable when pool is unattended. Pools under 24 inches (most inflatable and kiddie pools) are exempt from permits but still require supervision. Setbacks apply: minimum 5 ft from lot line in RSA districts. Must not be placed on rights-of-way or easements.
Unpermitted above-ground pool over 24 inches: stop-work plus 2000 dollars. Missing lockable ladder: 300-1000 dollars.
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