Hot Tubs, Ponds, Swimming Pools, and Water Features
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Source: Hot Tubs, Ponds, Swimming Pools, and Water Features ↗ Last modified: Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:05:54 GMT
Application forms for swimming pool permits, jacuzzi permits and permits for water features
Things you need to apply for this permit may include some or all of the following. If you aren't sure what you need, contact Permitting Services. Read more about swimming pool application requirements ↗, hot tub and spa permit applications ↗ and applications for water features ↗.
Pool, hot tub and water feature permit application forms include:
Apply for permits online
You can submit your permit application request online ↗ using Development Hub PDX.
What to include in a swimming pool permit application
A swimming pool is any structure used for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 24 inches deep. This includes in-ground, aboveground and on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs and spas. If the pool is prefabricated and the walls are entirely above adjacent grade, you do not need a permit. Requirements include:
- You need a building permit ↗ before you install a swimming pool.
- Electrical Permit. You must have an electrical permit ↗ for the installation of in-ground swimming pools. You may also need an electrical permit for an aboveground swimming pool.
- You must have either a sand filtration system or cartridge filter system for the pool. The backwash from a sand filtration system will need to discharge to the public sewer.
- All installations must restrict access to protect against drownings and near-drownings. Installations of swimming pools and hot tubs must meet the following code requirements:
- Fence or substantial barrier. Any swimming pool not totally enclosed by a structure must be enclosed by a barrier or fence ↗ at least four (4) feet in height. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barrier is 2 inches. Openings in the barrier shall not allow passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere.
- Self-closing and latching gate. The fence ↗ or barrier must have a self-closing and latching gate (except where bordered by a wall of an adjacent structure at least 4 feet in height). Gates must open outward away from the pool.
- Location:
- Swimming pool must be at least 3 feet from any lot line.
- Enclosing fence or wall will be at least 3 feet to the outer walls of the swimming pool.
- Swimming pools must be set back from adjacent slopes.
- In-ground pools in an overlay zone or plan district may have zoning restrictions.
- Above ground pools must follow setback and building coverage standards.
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