Travis County, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Travis County, TX, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Permit threshold
- Over 24 inches deep
- Wall as barrier
- 48 inches minimum
- Ladder
- Removable/lockable
- GFCI
- Required on pump circuit
- Inflatables
- Exempt under 24 inches
Summary
Above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches require a Travis County Development Permit and must meet the same 48-inch barrier standard. Pool walls at least 48 inches high may serve as the barrier if ladder is removable or lockable.
Sec. 757.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter: ... (8) "Pool" means a permanent swimming pool, permanent wading or reflection pool, or permanent hot tub or spa over 18 inches deep, located at ground level, above ground, below ground, or indoors. (9) "Pool yard" means an area that contains a pool. (10) "Pool yard enclosure" or "enclosure" means a fence, wall, or combination of fences, walls, gates, windows, or doors that completely surround a pool. Sec. 757.003. ENCLOSURE FOR POOL YARD. ... (b) The height of the pool yard enclosure must be at least 48 inches as measured from the ground on the side away from the pool.
Full Breakdown
Per 2021 IRC AV105.2, an above-ground pool structure may serve as its own barrier if the wall is at least 48 inches high on all sides. Access ladders must be removable, lockable, or surrounded by a compliant 48-inch barrier. Electrical service to pool pumps requires GFCI protection and NEC 680 bonding. OSSF setbacks apply: 10 feet from septic tank, 25 feet from drainfield. Temporary inflatable pools under 24 inches are exempt from permitting.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
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