Haltom City, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Hot Tub Rules (2026)

Haltom City regulates hot tubs and spas under the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and the National Electrical Code. Permanently installed spas (wired direct, plumbed to house sewer or water, or built into decking) require a building and electrical permit. Portable or self-contained spas that plug into a standard outlet (typically 120V units under 15 amps, often called plug-and-play spas) may not require a building permit, but hardwired 240V spas always require electrical permits. The VGB Pool and Spa Safety Act requires all spas including portable units to have anti-entrapment drain covers meeting ASME A112.19.8. Barrier requirements generally apply if the spa holds water more than 24 inches deep; however, the ISPSC provides an exemption for spas equipped with listed safety covers meeting ASTM F1346 that can be locked in place when the spa is not in use. The safety cover must be able to support a minimum weight (commonly 275 lb for children and pets crossing over). Electrical work must include a GFCI-protected dedicated circuit, NEC 680 equipotential bonding of metallic components within 5 feet of the spa water, and a properly installed disconnect within sight of the spa but at least 5 feet away per NEC 680.41. Hardwired spas require a 50A or 60A GFCI breaker in most cases. Indoor spas need ventilation per the International Mechanical Code and moisture-resistant electrical work. Chemical safety is important: spas heated above 104 degrees are dangerous particularly for pregnant women, young children, and people with medical conditions. The ANSI/APSP-6 standard recommends maximum 104 F.