Philadelphia, PA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Philadelphia, PA, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Issuing agency
- Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I)
- Permit exempt
- Prefab pools/spas under 24 in. deep AND under 5,000 gallons
- Above-ground permit fee
- $57 (per L&I safety bulletin)
- Setback
- Not within 2 ft of any property line or structure; rear yard only
- Separate permits
- Electrical and plumbing permits required separately
- EZ permit
- No plans needed for one-family accessory pools meeting L&I conditions
Summary
A Philadelphia building permit is required to install most in-ground and above-ground pools and spas; small prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep and under 5,000 gallons are exempt, and accessory one-family pools can use a no-plans EZ permit if they meet the L&I conditions.
EZ Permit Standards: Pools and Spas. Obtain permits for above-ground or in-ground swimming pools and spas (including hot tubs) accessory to an Existing One Family Dwelling without submitting plans by meeting the Conditions and Design Limitations below. (Deviations will require submission of plans to the Department with your permit applications.) Conditions: The pool or spa, accompanying structure and equipment must not be located in the front or side yard, and not within two feet of any property line or structure on the lot. Pools and spas may not be located on elevated structures such as decks or roofs. Electrical and Plumbing Work: Separate permits are required for all electrical and plumbing installations associated with the installation of the pool or spa.
Full Breakdown
The City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) issues building permits for swimming pool and spa installations. L&I's EZ Permit Standards let an owner 'Obtain permits for above-ground or in-ground swimming pools and spas (including hot tubs) accessory to an Existing One Family Dwelling without submitting plans by meeting the Conditions and Design Limitations below. '
Violations & Fines
Installing a pool or spa that requires a permit without one violates the Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code. L&I can issue a stop-work order and violation notice, charge investigation/double permit fees, and require the work to be exposed for inspection. The permit cannot be closed out until required inspections, including barrier verification, pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to install a pool in Philadelphia?
Can I get a pool permit without submitting plans?
Where can my pool be located on the lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
Compare Philadelphia to another location·View the Pennsylvania swimming pools & spas overview
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