Tempe, AZ Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Tempe, AZ, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Depth Threshold
- 18 inches triggers barrier requirements
- Wall as Barrier
- Allowed if 5+ feet with no footholds
- Ladder
- Must be removable or lockable
- Exempt
- Temporary pools under 18 inches deep
Summary
Above-ground pools in Tempe must meet the same barrier requirements as in-ground pools if they hold water deeper than 18 inches. The pool walls may serve as part of the barrier if they meet height requirements and ladders are removable or lockable.
A swimming pool, or other contained body of water that contains water eighteen inches or more in depth at any point and that is wider than eight feet at any point and is intended for swimming, shall be protected by an enclosure surrounding the pool area, as provided in this section.
B. A swimming pool or other contained body of water required to be enclosed by subsection A whether a belowground or aboveground pool shall meet the following requirements:
1. Be entirely enclosed by at least a five foot wall, fence or other barrier as measured on the exterior side of the wall, fence or barrier.
2. Have no openings in the wall, fence or barrier through which a spherical object four inches in diameter can pass.
Full Breakdown
Above-ground pools with water depth exceeding 18 inches must comply with Tempe's pool barrier requirements. Pool walls at least 5 feet high from grade may serve as the barrier if there are no footholds and the access ladder is removable or has a lockable gate. If pool walls are below 5 feet, additional fencing to meet the 5-foot total is required. Inflatable pools and temporary wading pools under 18 inches deep are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant above-ground pools receive the same enforcement as in-ground pools. Correction notices are issued with fines for continued non-compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do above-ground pools need a fence in Tempe?
Are inflatable pools exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tempe
Compare Tempe to another location·View the Arizona swimming pools & spas overview
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Pool Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle pool permits.