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Lima, OH 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 Lima, OH, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.

Key Facts

Permit required
Yes: pools/spas/hot tubs over 24 inches deep
Setbacks
Minimum 5 ft rear and side yards
Front yard
No pools over 24 inches allowed
Above-ground fee
$50.50 (includes 1% tax)
In-ground fee
$50.00 + $0.05/sq. ft. + 1% tax
Issuing office
Lima-Allen County Building Department

Summary

The City of Lima requires a permit from the Lima-Allen County Building Department to install any swimming pool, spa, or hot tub holding water over 24 inches deep. Applications need plans and plot plans showing minimum 5-foot rear and side yard setbacks. Above-ground pools cost $50.50; in-ground pools $50.00 plus

Owner/s or authorized agent/s shall sign the permit application or provide a sworn affidavit giving permission for installation of swimming pool. No swimming pools exceeding 24 inches are permitted in a front yard.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

Lima defines a 'swimming pool' as any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 24 inches deep, including in-ground, above-ground, on-ground pools, hot tubs and spas. The owner or authorized agent must sign the permit application (or a sworn affidavit) and submit pool information, plans, and a plot plan showing setbacks of at least 5 feet from the rear and side yards, with additional setbacks if the City Engineer finds a vehicular vision-clearance issue. Fencing information and location must be provided, and pools must be installed per manufacturer specifications. No swimming pool exceeding 24 inches is permitted in a front yard. Re-installing the same pool in the same location needs no permit.

Violations & Fines

Installing a regulated pool, spa, or hot tub without the required building and electrical permits is a code violation enforced by the Lima-Allen County Building Department. Work must pass inspection before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a hot tub or spa in Lima?
Yes if it holds water over 24 inches deep. Lima's City Code defines a swimming pool to include hot tubs and spas, so the same permit, barrier, and electrical requirements apply.
Do I need a new permit to replace my old pool?
No. Re-installment of a swimming pool 'same for same,' including the same location, requires no permit per the City of Lima's residential pool policy. A new or relocated pool does need a permit.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Lima

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsFencing & Safety RequirementsHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome Restrictions

All Lima rules

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