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.
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.
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. (Deviations will require submission of plans to the Department with your permit applications.)' The Conditions require that '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,' that 'Pools and spas may not be located on elevated structures such as decks or roofs,' and that in-ground pools 'be located a minimum distance from all property lines equal to the depth of the pool.' L&I's published list of work that does NOT require a building permit includes 'Prefabricated swimming pools or spas, less than 24 in. deep, less than 5,000 gallons.' Separate electrical and plumbing permits are required: 'Separate permits are required for all electrical and plumbing installations associated with the installation of the pool or spa.' Permits for above-ground pools can be obtained online, and the L&I safety bulletin notes 'The fee for the permit is only $57.'
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.
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