Haverford, PA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

In Haverford Township, paperwork comes before digging. Section 182-703B(3) of the Township Code says no swimming pool shall be constructed in the Township except in accordance with a permit previously secured from the Zoning Officer. The application is written and carries a plan showing the size, shape and location of the pool and its enclosure, plus whatever other information the Zoning Officer needs to decide whether the pool complies with the zoning chapter.

The code treats a pool as a structure for permit purposes. Under § 182-703A(2), open private recreational uses with permanent surfaces are considered structures for the purpose of permits and certain other regulations, although they are not counted as floor area in computing building coverage. Section 182-703A(3) keeps these uses out of front yards and at least 10 feet from any property line, and § 182-703B(1) repeats the 10-foot distance for pools, measured from the waterline.

The general zoning permit rules in Article IX add the timing. A zoning permit is issued simultaneously with the required building permit (§ 182-902A). Permits are granted or refused within 30 days after the date of application, and a refused applicant is told of the right to appeal to the Zoning Hearing Board (§ 182-902C(2)). A permit is void if the authorized work is not substantially commenced within six months of issuance and pursued with due diligence (§ 182-902D). The Zoning Officer has no power to permit any construction that does not conform to the chapter (§ 182-901A(1)).

Fees are set outside the zoning chapter. The Chapter A187 fee schedule lists $250 for in-ground pools, including bonding and fence enclosure, and $75 for aboveground pools. Section 182-704 requires compliance with Chapter 78, Erosion and Sediment Control; Stormwater Management, in all districts.