Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Clarksville, TN 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 Clarksville, TN, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.

Key Facts

Permit
Required before installation
Property line setback
Ten feet minimum
House setback
Five feet minimum
Easements
Pools not permitted within
Electrical permit fee
$32 for pools, hot tubs

Summary

Every swimming pool in Clarksville needs a permit before installation, in-ground or above-ground. The city requires a minimum ten-foot setback from property lines, five feet from the house, and no encroachment into easements or right-of-way.

An application for a building permit shall be obtained from the Building and Codes Department. It shall be unlawful to commence the excavation or construction of any building, including accessory buildings, or to commence the moving or alteration of any building, including accessory buildings, until the building official has issued a building permit for the work.

Source: City of Clarksville Code of OrdinancesView 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 110 Update 2 | Zoning Ordinance: Supplement 6).

Full Breakdown

Zoning Ordinance Sec. 11.7 makes it unlawful to commence excavation or construction of any building or structure until the building official issues a building permit, and the zoning ordinance defines a swimming pool as a structure. Building and Codes issues a Pools and Decks permit covering in-ground pools, above-ground pools, permanent spas and hot tubs, and associated decks and platforms. Applications need a site plan or survey showing property lines, setbacks and easements, pool type and size, barrier or fence details with gate locations, and total project valuation. A separate electrical permit covers bonding and wiring, at a $32 fee under Sec. 4-306. Grading permits are not triggered by pool excavation under Sec. 12-304.

Violations & Fines

Zoning violations draw a civil fine up to fifty dollars per day under Sec. 11.9, and failure to obtain required permits may result in enforcement action by Building and Codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an above-ground pool need a permit?
Yes. The city's Pools and Decks permit covers in-ground pools, above-ground pools, permanent spas and hot tubs, and associated decks. Uncertified property surveys are accepted for on-ground pools.
How close to the fence can my pool go?
The city requires a minimum ten feet from property lines and five feet from the primary residence, and pools may not sit in easements or right-of-way areas.
Do I need a grading permit to excavate?
No. City Code Sec. 12-304(2)(b) exempts finish grading or excavation below finished grade for swimming pools from the grading permit requirement.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Clarksville

All Clarksville rules

Compare Clarksville to another location·View the Tennessee swimming pools & spas overview

Get notified when Pool Permits in Clarksville, TN changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.