Wayne County, MI Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

Residential swimming pool permits in Wayne County are issued by each municipality building department rather than by the county, because the state-delegated building code authority runs through cities and charter townships. Michigan has adopted the 2015 Michigan Residential Code (based on the IRC) which requires a permit for any pool capable of holding 24 inches or more of water. Required permits typically include a building permit, an electrical permit for pool pumps and bonding, and sometimes a plumbing permit for backwash lines. Barriers at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates are required around all residential pools per IRC Appendix G. Doors from the house to the pool area must have alarms or the pool must have a powered safety cover. The federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act mandates anti-entrapment drain covers on all pools and spas, applicable nationwide. Detroit, Dearborn, Livonia, Westland, and Canton Township each charge permit fees ranging from 75 to 400 dollars depending on pool type and size. Final inspection is required before filling.