Seattle, WA Swimming Pools & Spas: Hot Tub Rules (2026)

Hot tubs and spas in unincorporated King County are regulated under KCC 16.04 and the Washington State Building Code. Portable, self-contained spas installed on a patio or deck that have a water depth of 24 inches or less typically do not require a separate building permit, but any 240-volt electrical hookup requires an electrical permit and inspection by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) or the Department of Local Services depending on jurisdiction. The spa must have a locking, lockable safety cover that meets ASTM F1346 standards, OR be enclosed within a barrier (fence) meeting pool barrier requirements (48 inches high, self-closing and self-latching gates). Permanent in-ground spas or spas integrated with a pool follow the same rules as swimming pools, including a building permit under KCC 16.04, plumbing and electrical permits, setbacks, inspections, and anti-entrapment drain covers meeting federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act) standards. Electrical bonding per NEC Article 680 is required for permanent installations. Noise from hot tub motors, jets, and associated gatherings is subject to the King County noise ordinance (KCC 12.86 and KCC 12.88), with outdoor amplified sound and loud conversation subject to nighttime limits starting at 10 pm. Setback rules under KCC Title 21A apply to the spa and any enclosing structure — especially relevant on smaller lots or near septic systems. Commercial and rental hot tubs fall under WAC 246-260 and Public Health Seattle and King County.