A building permit is required for construction, alteration, repair, or enlargement of any residential swimming pool. A pool is any artificial structure, basin, chamber, or tank, except a private spa, either above or below ground, that is accessory to a residential setting and available only to the household and its guests for swimming, diving, wading, or recreational bathing. Swimming pool includes all appurtenant equipment, structures, and facilities located within a common enclosure. Swimming pools installed prior to January 1, 1990, must be protected by a fence at least 42” tall or have an automatic swimming pool cover. Swimming pools installed after that date must be protected by an adequate barrier 60” tall.

If a code violation is reported at your property, an inspector will order appropriate corrective action which may include obtaining a permit.

In many circumstances, electrical , mechanical , public right-of-way , well and septic , and/or fire protection permits are required to complete the project. You will also need to make sure that your project conforms to Zoning requirements.

Many of the subdivision and developments in Montgomery County have private deed restrictions and covenants regulating construction. The County does not enforce covenants and deed restrictions. You may obtain information from your homeowner’s or civic association. You may also need a permit or other permission if you live a Montgomery County municipality that requires it.

Applications will be taken in for regular review process and it may take up to 17 days to issue the permit for adequately prepared applications.

Plans must be submitted electronically using the DPS eServices system. The applicant must adhere to the ePlans submittal requirements which can be found in the process box. Please visit our eServices page for to learn about performing tasks electronically. Plans and specifications must be drawn to scale and contain the following:

Location diagram / site plan

• Pool layout, including all equipment
• Piping layout
• Filter room layout (if applicable)
• Equipment specifications - Make and model number must be submitted for all NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) equipment. Specifications sheets must be submitted for all non-NSF equipment.
• Structural sections
• Finish schedule of all surfaces

Please refer to our fee schedule for information regarding fees associated with this permit application process.

Homeowners may apply for a swimming pool permit in their own name; however, if a contractor is to perform the work, DPS strongly suggests that the contractor be listed on the permit as the party responsible for the work. A contractor must have a Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license to obtain a permit.

Please see our list of required inspections associated with this permit application type.

If you will build the same pool at several different locations, you may establish a model pool permit. The plans for the pool are reviewed once and a model permit issued. This program was established to expedite the issuance of pool permits. Subsequent permits or refer back permits for the same model pool built in other locations may then be issued without building plan review. Model permits are valid only for the current building codes cycle. Permits may be reviewed through the “regular” review track.