Bowling Green, KY Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

Kentucky Residential Code Appendix G is the primary pool safety code. Section AG105.1 (Application) states: 'The provisions of this appendix shall control the design of barriers for residential swimming pools. These design controls are intended to provide protection against potential drownings and near-drownings by restricting access to swimming pools.' AG105.2 establishes the barrier requirements detailed under fencing-requirements. AG105.4 (Prohibited locations) requires: 'Barriers shall be located to prohibit permanent structures, equipment or similar objects from being used to climb them.' AG105.5 (Barrier exceptions) provides: 'Spas or hot tubs with a safety cover which comply with ASTM F 1346 shall be exempt from the provisions of this appendix.' AG105.6 (Locations) sets the state pool location standard: 'Private swimming pools shall not encroach on any front or side yard required by this code or by the governing zoning laws, unless in accordance with specific rules of the jurisdiction in which the pool is located. A wall of a swimming pool shall not be located less than 6 feet (1829mm) from any rear or side property lines or 10 feet (3048mm) from any street property line, unless in accordance with the specific rules of the jurisdiction in which the pool is located.' The Warren County/Joint Zoning Ordinance imposes the stricter local rule of 10 feet from side and rear property lines and 25 feet from a corner-lot side street (Sec. 4.4.5.E.6.b). For pools located in or on a lot of a one- or two-family dwelling, AG101.1 makes the appendix applicable, and AG101.2 imposes additional requirements for pools in FEMA-designated flood hazard areas (above-ground per ASCE 24, in-ground via floodway analysis per AG101.2.1/AG101.2.2). The City of Bowling Green also requires an erosion/sediment/pollution control (ESPC) plan for new in-ground pools given karst stormwater concerns.