Shelby County, TN Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Shelby County, TN, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes (building + electrical)
- Issuing office
- Construction Code Enforcement
- Code basis
- Memphis-Shelby County Residential Code
- Permit exemption
- Prefab pool under 24 inches deep
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Shelby County
Summary
In unincorporated Shelby County, a residential swimming pool needs a building permit from the Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement. The county enforces the adopted Memphis and Shelby County Residential Code, based on the International Residential Code (IRC).
Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610mm) deep [are exempt from permit].
Full Breakdown
Shelby County adopted the ICC International Residential Code with local amendments as the Memphis and Shelby County Residential Code (Shelby County Commission Ordinance No. 425). Under IRC Section R105/R101.2, in-ground pools and most above-ground pools are structures requiring a building permit; the county's local amendments exempt only prefabricated swimming pools less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep from permitting. Construction Code Enforcement reviews plans, issues the permit, and inspects the required safety barrier and pool equipment. Separate electrical permits apply to pool wiring, bonding, and lighting under the adopted Memphis and Shelby County Electrical Code (Residential Code Chapter 42, Swimming Pools). Incorporated cities such as Memphis, Bartlett, Collierville, and Germantown issue their own permits.
Violations & Fines
Building without a required permit exposes the owner to a stop-work order and enforcement by Construction Code Enforcement. Final approval and the barrier inspection cannot be issued until the pool and its enclosure pass inspection under the adopted Residential Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small inflatable pool?
Who issues pool permits in unincorporated Shelby County?
Does the county inspect the pool?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee swimming pools & spas overview
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