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Annapolis, MD Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

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

Swimming pool permit rules in Annapolis, MD, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.

Key Facts

Permit exemption
struck: all pool work needs one
Enclosure height
4 ft minimum, self-latching gate
Electrical permit fee
$45 for above-ground pool wiring
Permitting agency
Dept. of Planning and Zoning

Summary

Annapolis strikes the standard code exemption for small pools: § 17.12.021 replaces the adopted Swimming Pool and Spa Code's permit-exempt-work section, so above-ground and portable pools need a City permit the same as an in-ground pool, there is no size or depth threshold.

3. Strike section 105 of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code adopted in Section 17.12.021 and substitute with the following: 105.1 Work exempt from permit. All work shall require a permit(s), except as may be exempted by Section 17.05.020.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 2025 Update 2).

Full Breakdown

The City adopts the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code but strikes its Section 105 permit exemptions, substituting: "All work shall require a permit(s), except as may be exempted by Section 17.05.020." Section 17.05.020 lists only Building/Residential Code exemptions plus a narrow carve-out for window, door and siding repairs, nothing for portable or above-ground pools. Once installed, § 10.28.030 requires a barrier at least four feet high with a self-latching gate for any private pool, and an electrical permit is needed for the pump and wiring under § 17.16.030, billed at $45 for an above-ground unit per the § 17.16.040 fee schedule.

Violations & Fines

Installing or wiring a pool without the required permit is a municipal infraction carrying a civil fine set by City Council resolution under § 17.05.010(D); each day of noncompliance is a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a small inflatable or above-ground pool need a permit in Annapolis?
Yes. The City struck the usual code exemption for small pools, so a permit is required regardless of size or depth.
Is a fence required around an above-ground pool?
Yes, § 10.28.030 requires a barrier at least four feet high with a self-latching gate for any private pool.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Annapolis

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsFencing & Safety RequirementsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant Restrictions

All Annapolis rules

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