Roanoke, VA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

2-521 sets the baseline: no development may be undertaken in the city until all applicable permits are issued, and at minimum that means a zoning permit from the Zoning Administrator and a building permit from the Department of Planning, Building and Development. 2-522(a)(1) lists swimming pool construction among the activities that normally require a zoning permit, alongside erecting, reconstructing, or structurally altering any structure. 2 exemptions from application for a permit) does not need a separate zoning permit either. In practice, that state exemption typically covers small, shallow above-ground pools, while larger or in-ground pools that require a building permit under the state construction code will also need the zoning permit described here.

Once a zoning permit application is filed, the Zoning Administrator returns a marked copy showing approval, conditional approval, or denial, with reasons stated for any denial. 2-522 authorizes only the exact pool location, arrangement, and construction shown on the approved plans, and it expires if work has not begun within six months of issuance, though a new permit can be requested within 90 days after expiration if the original plans are still adequate. 2-403(c) and (l).