Roseville, MN Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Private swimming pools, hot tubs and similar private recreational facilities in Roseville all fall under § 1011.12(b)(4). The facility cannot be operated as a business or private club, cannot sit within any required front or side yard, and, together with any walks, paved areas, or related structures or equipment, must be set back at least ten feet from any property line.

The fence rule for swimming pools is specific. The pool itself, the rear yard, or the entire property must be enclosed by a non-climbable wall, fence, or combination of the two at least four feet in height. Ventilating slats can have openings not exceeding four inches. The gate must be self-closing with a latch, with the latch located on the inside, three inches below the top of the fence, and the gate must be capable of being secured with a lock so as to prevent uncontrolled access by children. If the only access is through a principal or accessory structure, that point of access must be lockable.

Above-ground pools get a partial credit: pool sides that are vertical can count toward the required fencing, provided all points of access are controlled to prevent access by children. That includes removing all ladders or stairs whenever the pool is not in use, or complying with a nationally recognized pool safety standard.

Other dimensional limits apply. An in-ground pool must be set back at least six feet from the principal structure. Hot tubs cannot be within five feet of any side yard or rear lot line or within any required front yard, and a child-resistant, lockable cover can replace the four-foot fence. Portable pools follow the same five-foot setback, can use a child-resistant cover instead of the fence, must have a detachable ladder placed so no child can enter without the owner's consent, and cannot be in place longer than six months in a calendar year.

Pool lighting must be oriented away from adjacent properties, the facility cannot sit in a drainage or utility easement, and accessory mechanical apparatus must be at least 30 feet from any residential structure on an adjacent lot. A building permit from the city is required for any pool containing more than 3,000 gallons or with a depth in excess of 42 inches.