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

Under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC), Virginia Beach Permits and Inspections issues swimming pool permits for any structure intended to contain water over 24 inches deep. In-ground pools universally require permits including plumbing, electrical, and building trades; above-ground pools more than 24 inches deep or with surface area greater than 250 square feet likewise require permits. Plan submittal typically includes a site plan showing the pool, deck, equipment pad, setbacks from property lines (commonly 10 feet side and rear in most residential districts under the Zoning Ordinance), setback from the primary structure, and distance from any septic drainfield (usually 10 feet minimum per Virginia Department of Health rules). Properties within a Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area (RPA) or Resource Management Area (RMA) face additional review because pool decks count toward impervious cover limits. Electrical permit covers equipotential bonding grid, GFCI protection on all pool outlets, and proper conductor sizing for the pump. Required inspections include pre-pour of bonding, rough electrical and plumbing, barrier final, and electrical final. A Certificate of Occupancy or equivalent pool final is required before the pool may be used. Typical permit fees run $200 to $500 for a residential in-ground pool including all trades.