Elmhurst, IL Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

In unincorporated DuPage County, a permit from DuPage County Building and Zoning is required before installing any in-ground or above-ground residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub. Chapter 8 of the County Code (Building Code), Article XIII, adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) 2021 with local amendments. Section 8-112.1 establishes the permit-required principle for accessory structures including pools. Applications are filed through the Accela permitting portal as an accessory-structure submittal. ISPSC Section 305 sets the barrier rules: outdoor residential pools and spas must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates opening away from the pool, and openings restricted so a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through. For PUBLIC pools — those serving hotels, motels, condominium and apartment complexes, health clubs, water parks, and other shared facilities — the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) administers operating permits and annual inspections as the local Agent Health Department for the Illinois Department of Public Health under the Illinois Swimming Facility Act (210 ILCS 125) and Title 77, Part 820 of the Illinois Administrative Code. IDPH issues the initial construction permit for public pools; DCHD handles operating permits, water-quality inspections, and enforcement at the more than 700 indoor and outdoor public pools, spas, and water parks across DuPage. Private backyard residential pools are not regulated by the Health Department program. Contact: Building and Zoning (630) 407-6700; Health Department (630) 682-7400.