Anderson County, SC Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

Chapter 48's Article 6 allows game courts and swimming pools as accessory uses in residential districts serving one-family, one-family manufactured home, and two-family dwellings. 2 sets four site requirements for a residential pool: it must be set back not less than five feet, using the same setback distances that apply to accessory buildings in that zoning district; it cannot occupy more than 50 percent of the rear yard; and any pool lighting must be properly shielded from glare. These zoning standards operate alongside, not instead of, the county's Article III building permit process: because installing an in-ground or above-ground pool is a construction or improvement to the property, an owner-built pool costing $1,000 or more triggers the building permit requirement of § 8-111, requires the same application information listed in § 8-113 (owner name, estimated cost, lot address, right-of-way width, and intended use, among other items), and needs the county treasurer's tax-payment certificate under § 8-115 before the codes department will issue it.

The pool's electrical equipment, such as a pump or heater circuit, also falls under § 8-114's ban on utility connections until the permit is obtained and a release for power is granted. 2.