Greensboro, NC Swimming Pools & Spas: Hot Tub Rules (2026)

Hot tubs and spas in Greensboro are regulated under the same framework as swimming pools but have some distinct provisions under the North Carolina Residential Code Appendix V. An electrical permit is required for all permanently wired hot tubs and spas due to the 240-volt dedicated circuit typically needed. The electrical installation must comply with NEC Article 680 Part IV, which covers spas and hot tubs specifically, including GFCI protection for the supply circuit, proper bonding of metal components, and specific clearance requirements for electrical panels and outlets. A building permit may not be required for a portable plug-in hot tub placed on an existing patio at grade level, but the electrical connection still requires an electrical permit if hardwired. The barrier requirement for hot tubs can be satisfied by a locking safety cover that meets ASTM F1346-91 standards, which eliminates the need for a separate fence enclosure around the spa. The cover must be capable of supporting the weight of a child and must lock securely. If no compliant cover is used, the full 48-inch barrier and gate requirements apply. The federal VGB Act applies to hot tub and spa drains just as it does to pools, requiring compliant drain covers and anti-entrapment systems. Hot tubs must maintain the same property line setbacks as pools. Placement on a deck requires verification that the deck structure can support the filled weight, which can exceed 3,000 pounds for a standard six-person spa. Greensboro does not restrict hot tub hours of use, but noise from pumps and jets must comply with the city noise ordinance in Chapter 17 of the Code of Ordinances.