Yakima, WA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Yakima, WA, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Exempt depth
- Under 24 inches deep
- Exempt capacity
- 5,000 gallons, above-ground only
- Otherwise
- In-ground/larger pools need permit
- Citation
- YMC § 11.04.105(9)
Summary
Yakima exempts only small prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep and 5,000 gallons, installed entirely above ground, from a building permit: any bigger or in-ground residential pool needs one.
Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 and U occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, and are not greater than 5000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.
10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service equipment.
11. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings.
12. Window awnings in Group R-3 and U occupancies, supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
13. Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
14. Intermodal shipping containers that are approved for temporary S-1 or S-2 storage under the umbrella of a valid temporary use permit or construction permit. The remainder of Section 105.2 of the Washington State Building Code is adopted by reference. (Ord. 2019-006 § 1, 2019; Ord. 2021-001 § 2, 2021)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4980636; v1 updated 2026-08-03; through 08-03-2026).
Full Breakdown
Yakima's building code amendments list only one pool exempt from a permit: a prefabricated pool accessory to a house (Group R-3) or utility building (Group U) that is under 24 inches deep, holds no more than 5,000 gallons, and sits entirely above ground. Any pool that is deeper, larger, in-ground, or permanently installed falls outside that exemption and needs a building permit reviewed by the city's code administration division before construction begins.
Violations & Fines
Building a pool without the required permit is a misdemeanor under YMC § 11.01.010, up to a $250 fine, 90 days in jail, or both, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small inflatable kiddie pool?
What about an in-ground backyard pool?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima
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