Garland, TX Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Garland, TX, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Setbacks
- Pools over 24 inches deep require a permit
- Setbacks
- Pool walls 48+ inches can serve as the barrier
- Ladder Must
- Ladder is removable and locked when unattended
- Setbacks
- 5-foot setback from side and rear property lines
- Prohibitions
- Cannot be placed over easements
Summary
Above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches in Garland require permits, barriers or removable ladders, and must meet setback rules from property lines and structures.
ENCLOSURE FOR POOL YARD. (a) Except as otherwise provided by Section 757.005, the owner of a multiunit rental complex with a pool or a property owners association that owns, controls, or maintains a pool shall completely enclose the pool yard with a pool yard enclosure. (b) The height of the pool yard enclosure must be at least 48 inches as measured from the ground on the side away from the pool. (c) Openings under the pool yard enclosure may not allow a sphere four inches in diameter to pass under the pool yard enclosure.
Full Breakdown
Above-ground pools in Garland are regulated based on water depth. Pools 24 inches deep or shallower (typical inflatable wading pools) generally do not require permits or barriers but must be drained when unattended. Pools deeper than 24 inches require a building permit, must comply with the same barrier rules as in-ground pools, and need either a 48-inch enclosure measured from outside grade or have walls at least 48 inches tall with a removable, lockable ladder or stairs that are secured when the pool is not in use. The pool itself can serve as the barrier if its sides are at least 48 inches and any attached deck is also enclosed. Above-ground pools must be set back at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines and cannot be placed over utility easements. Drainage must comply with backwash discharge rules.
Violations & Fines
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Garland code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my Intex 4-foot pool need a permit in Garland?
Can I drain my above-ground pool into the street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Garland
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Garland to another location·View the Texas swimming pools & spas overview
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Pool Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle pool permits.