Queens County, NY Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

Queens pool permitting is split between the Department of Buildings (construction and plumbing) and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (operation). Under the NYC Construction Codes and 1 RCNY 101-14, any pool deeper than 24 inches or larger than 250 square feet of water surface must be filed with DOB through a New York State licensed architect or professional engineer. The filing must show barrier compliance with NYC Building Code section 3109 (which adopts a 48 inch barrier minimum), pool circulation and filtration, backflow prevention on the water supply, electrical bonding and grounding per NEC Article 680, and drainage for backwash water to the sanitary sewer. A separate plumbing permit is required for the water supply and waste connections. Inspections during and after construction are mandatory, with a final sign-off letter of completion issued only after successful testing. Pools that will be used by more than a single one- or two-family household, including those in apartment buildings, condos, and hotels, must also obtain a NYC Health Department permit under Article 165 before opening each season. That permit covers water quality testing, certified pool operators, and lifeguard staffing. Operating a regulated pool without the necessary DOB and DOH permits is a Class 1 (immediately hazardous) violation with substantial fines.