Plainfield, NJ Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

Section 17:9-47 of the Plainfield Municipal Code treats a swimming pool as an accessory structure. Pools, tennis courts and racquetball courts are permitted on lots used as single- and two-family dwellings in residential districts and on any tract developed for apartments or townhouses, and an approved development permit is required before construction starts. The applicant submits adequate surveys, plans and details to the Zoning Officer so a determination can be made on zoning conformance.

Location is limited to the rear or side yard area (subsection A). Subsection B counts the surface area of the pool as impervious, along with any concrete, asphalt, brick or other solid surface that serves as a walkway to the pool or completely surrounds it, and the pool falls under the bulk requirements of the chapter. Subsection C holds the pool surface, attached structures and pool filtering equipment at least ten feet from any side or rear lot line, and sets walkways and abutting impervious area back at least three feet from any lot line. Subsection E bans draining a pool into a public sanitary sewer or locating it so that pool or filter water drains onto another property.

The general accessory structure rule in § 17:9-19 also applies: a development permit is required before installing any accessory use or structure, and no more than three accessory structures can be erected on a lot, with fences not counted. Under § 17:1-20 the Zoning Officer issues permits together with the administrative officer and the Construction Official, and cannot approve a development permit for a structure that would violate the chapter except on a written order of the approving authority. This page covers the zoning permit; the pool fence standard is covered on its own page.