Do You Need Neighbors’ Permission to Build a Pool?

The decision to build a pool on your property isn’t something you should take likely. While it would be fun to have a pool and beneficial to your family’s well-being, there are also many rules and regulations that you’ll need to follow. Do you need neighbors permission to build a pool? 

The rules vary depending on where you live, but you may well require permission from neighbors. You’ll also need to choose the right location and design and make sure everything goes according to plan.


Is permission required

Do You Need Neighbors' Permission to Build a Pool?

While building a pool in your yard can be an excellent way for you and your family to relax and enjoy yourself during the summer months, it’s important to know that you might need your neighbors’ permission before doing so. Depending on where you live, local ordinances and other rules may dictate whether or not you need to get the go-ahead from your neighbors in order to proceed with construction.

So how do you determine if you need your neighbors’ permission to build a pool? First, check your local ordinance or subdivision rules. These will typically list the minimum setback distance between your property line and where you want to build the pool. There may also be rules about what size of pool you can build depending on how much land you own and how far away you are building from your neighboring properties. 

Most jurisdictions also have different rules for in-ground versus above-ground pools, so it’s important to review all of these regulations closely before getting started.

When planning your pool, you can:

  • Research local councils rules
  • Discuss your plans with the neighbors
  • Get an architect to draw up plans for your pool
  • Submit the plans and get permission to go ahead with construction

Getting permission from neighbors

Do You Need Neighbors' Permission to Build a Pool?

If you determine that your neighbors’ permission is required, it’s essential to approach them in a friendly and respectful way. You might want to consider offering some type of compensation for any inconvenience or extra work caused by the construction process, such as helping with yardwork or providing access to the pool when it is completed.


Other permission that may be needed

Before construction starts on your pool, you may need to get other types of permission. For example, if building materials need to be transported or you’ll be blocking the highway to bring in materials, you’ll require a license. 

You may also need a waste management license to help you store and dispose of soil and rubble that’s been dug up to create your pool.


What happens if I don’t apply for a license?

It’s best to stay on the right side of the law and apply for the correct licenses when building a pool. You’ll have to do this no matter what size of pool you are building. Even if your pool is very small and is out of the way of your neighbors. Failure to apply for the correct permission will result in a fine. 

Many pool construction companies will take care of the technical aspects of building a pool for you. They will handle all the paperwork, apply for the required permits and licenses, and design, build and construct your pool. 


Constructing a community pool

People have got together with their neighbors to build a communal pool in some places. In this case, the paperwork and licenses will be the same, but you will share the costs associated with building and maintaining your pool with your neighbors. 


Final thoughts

Ultimately, building a pool can be a great way to enrich your family’s life and create new memories for years to come. By doing your research and positively working with your neighbors, you can ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.

You may also be interested in finding out about laying artificial grass around your pool.