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

Section 82-12 adopts the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, published by the International Code Council, as part of Chapter 82 with the same force and effect as if set out in full in the county code, subject to local changes and to the rule that the most restrictive provision controls if it conflicts with another part of the county code. A copy must be kept on file for public inspection in the office of the Director of Administration and the office of the Council Administrator.

Section 82-13 folds the pool code into the rest of the county's construction rules by definition: within the Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 'International Building Code' and 'International Residential Code' mean the versions adopted in Chapter 82's own Articles I and II, and 'NFPA-70' means the Harford County Electrical Code at Chapter 105. 10-per-foot fence charge. A pool that is not accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling, such as a community or club pool, costs $360 plus the fence fee. If the permit is disapproved or withdrawn before issuance, § 157-3(E) refunds 50% of the fee paid, and where no work has been done under an issued pool permit, the holder can turn it in for a 50% refund if that is done within 6 months of issuance under § 157-3(D).

Public, recreational and semi-public pools carry a separate duty under Chapter 226: each must be equipped on site with a CPR rescue mask, first aid kit and automated external defibrillator meeting Maryland's COMAR Title 30 AED standards, maintained per the manufacturer's specifications by the pool's owner or operator, with a misdemeanor penalty under § 226-3 for violations, subject to the Chapter 1 general penalty of up to $1,000 or 6 months in jail.