Colonie, NY Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

Under the Town of Colonie Zoning Law and the New York State Uniform Code (19 NYCRR Parts 1219-1228), a swimming pool is a regulated structure and may not be installed without a building permit from the Department of Building & Code Enforcement. The permit submittal package typically includes: (1) a completed application identifying the pool type, dimensions, and depth; (2) a plot plan/survey showing the pool location, all setbacks from property lines and the principal dwelling, the barrier/fence, gates, and any decking; (3) electrical bonding and grounding details from a NY-licensed electrician (required by NEC Article 680); (4) manufacturer specifications for above-ground pools or engineered drawings for in-ground pools; and (5) a barrier plan demonstrating ISPSC compliance (see fences/pool-barriers). Setbacks from side and rear lot lines are set by the underlying residential zoning district (commonly 8 to 15 feet for accessory structures including pools). Pools may not be located in a front yard or in any required side yard. The pool may not be filled, and the electrical may not be energized, until the building inspector has signed off on the barrier, gates, alarms, and bonding. Public/semi-public pools (community, HOA, hotel) additionally require permit-to-operate from the Albany County Department of Health under 10 NYCRR Subpart 6-1; that subpart does not apply to private single-family residential pools.