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Colorado Springs, CO 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 Colorado Springs, CO, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.

Key Facts

Permit authority
Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD)
Permit required
All in-ground and permanent/portable on-ground pools and spas
Permit exemption
Above-ground pool <24 inches deep and <=5,000 gallons
Code Section
City Code 7.3.105.A.2.k (pools allowed in residential zones)
Structural plan
Required for in-ground pools (CO-licensed design professional)
Office
2880 International Circle, Colorado Springs; 719-327-2880

Summary

A building permit from the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department is required before installing any in-ground or permanent above-ground pool, spa, or water feature in Colorado Springs; only prefabricated above-ground pools less than 24 inches deep and not more than 5,000 gallons are permit-exempt.

RESIDENTIAL SWIMMING POOLS. The following items are for any permittable pool, spa, or water feature that is accessory to a residential structure on a single residential lot. Both onground portable (temporary) and permanent inground pools require permits. Site plan: Show location of pool(s) on the lot, dimensions to lot lines and adjacent structures, and all pool barrier requirements (fence location or automatic cover statement). Structural Plan (NOT required for onground portable pools): Structural plan stamped by a Colorado licensed design professional, OR an Evaluation Report from a nationally recognized testing laboratory for prefabricated pool(s).

Source: Pikes Peak Regional Building DepartmentView official code

Full Breakdown

Swimming pool permitting for Colorado Springs is handled by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD), 2880 International Circle, which reviews and permits pools under the adopted 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. ' The required submittal includes a site plan showing the location of the pool on the lot, dimensions to lot lines and adjacent structures, and all pool barrier requirements (fence location or automatic cover statement); a structural plan stamped by a Colorado-licensed design professional is also required for in-ground pools (but not for onground portable pools), or an evaluation report from a nationally recognized testing laboratory for prefabricated pools. k, so the building permit, not a separate zoning approval, is the primary gate for a backyard pool.

Violations & Fines

Installing a pool or spa that exceeds the exemption thresholds without a PPRBD permit is a building code violation. PPRBD can issue stop-work orders, require uncovering of completed work for inspection, and withhold final approval; unresolved violations may be referred to City of Colorado Springs Code Enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a portable above-ground pool?
Only above-ground pools less than 24 inches deep and not more than 5,000 gallons are exempt. Both onground portable (temporary) and permanent in-ground pools above those thresholds require a PPRBD building permit.
Where do I apply for a pool permit in Colorado Springs?
Through the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department at 2880 International Circle (719-327-2880, pprbd.org), which administers building permits for the City of Colorado Springs and surrounding El Paso County.
Are private pools even allowed in my residential zone?
Yes. City Code Subsection 7.3.105.A.2.k allows private swimming pools and/or bath houses as an accessory use in any residential zone, subject to building permit and barrier requirements.

Sources & Official References

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