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Clarksville, TN Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Permanent spa
City pool permit required
Portable inflatable tub
Not a permanent installation
Shared or HOA hot tub
Type D public pool
State permit
Local health department, Montgomery County
Public tub barrier
Four feet, self-latching gates

Summary

Clarksville treats a permanently installed spa or hot tub as a pool for permit purposes. Tennessee goes further for shared tubs: a hot tub at an apartment complex, subdivision or club is a Type D public pool needing a state health permit.

Type "D" means whirlpools, hot tubs, or other pools of similar type and usage, intended for health or recreational usage.

Source: City of Clarksville Code of OrdinancesView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

The Building and Codes Department lists spas and hot tubs in permanent installations among the structures requiring a pool permit, alongside in-ground pools, above-ground pools and associated decks. The zoning ordinance defines a swimming pool as a structure above or below grade designed to hold water for recreational use, which pulls spas into setback and building permit rules. A private residential or therapeutic tub is outside state jurisdiction. Once a hot tub serves an apartment building, condominium, homeowners association, subdivision or health club, Tennessee Department of Health rules classify it as a Type D public swimming pool, requiring a permit through the local health department, approved plans, and a four-foot enclosing barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates.

Violations & Fines

State pool permits can be revoked by the Commissioner after a hearing for serious or repeated violations under Rule 1200-23-5-.04(4), effective ten days after written notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a backyard hot tub?
For a permanent installation, yes. The city's pool permit covers spas and hot tubs in permanent installations. Electrical, plumbing or gas permits may also apply for bonding, water and heaters.
Does the state regulate my private hot tub?
No. Tennessee's public swimming pool rules expressly exclude residential and therapeutic pools. They reach hot tubs serving apartments, condominiums, subdivisions, homeowners associations and clubs.
Who permits our neighborhood's shared spa?
The Tennessee Department of Health, applied for through the Montgomery County health department at 330 Pageant Lane, Clarksville. Plans must be approved before construction.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Clarksville

All Clarksville rules

Compare Clarksville to another location·View the Tennessee swimming pools & spas overview

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