Design
Colorado is known for its breathtaking scenery and high altitudes.

Rules and Regulations
If you live in Colorado and are planning for a new pool, it’s essential to understand state and local requirements before breaking ground. While Colorado does not have a single statewide residential pool code, most cities and counties adopt the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) or similar standards, often with local amendments. Regulations can vary widely by municipality—so always check with your local building department and work with a licensed contractor who can guide you through permitting and compliance.

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Do You Need a Permit for a Pool in Colorado?

Yes—most Colorado municipalities require a building permit for any in-ground swimming pool and for above-ground pools over a certain depth (often 24 inches or more).

• Denver: Requires permits for all in-ground pools and above-ground pools over 24 inches deep, including plan review, site setbacks, and inspections.

• Colorado Springs: Similar requirements, plus separate permits for electrical and plumbing work.

• Boulder County: Requires zoning approval before applying for a building permit, especially in rural or mountain areas where grading and retaining walls may be involved.

In many jurisdictions, separate permits are required for decks, electrical service, and gas lines for heaters.

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Do You Need a Fence Around Your Pool in Colorado?

Yes—most municipalities follow the ISPSC requirement that residential pools be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet) high. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches at least 54 inches from the ground.

• Openings in the barrier must be small enough to prevent a 4-inch sphere from passing through.

• Chain link fences must have a mesh size no greater than 2.25 inches.

• If a wall of the house forms part of the barrier, additional safety measures such as door alarms or self-closing/latching doors are required.

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Do You Need a Cover for Your Pool in Colorado?

While pool covers are not universally required, they may be used as part of a compliant safety barrier system. In some municipalities, if you choose not to build a fence around the entire pool, an ASTM-compliant automatic safety cover can be used instead. Covers are also strongly recommended in Colorado’s dry climate to reduce evaporation and heat loss, especially at higher elevations.

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How Far Away Does Your Pool Have to Be From Your Home or Property Lines?

Setback requirements vary by jurisdiction:

• Denver: In-ground pools must be set back at least 3 feet from side and rear property lines; check zoning rules for corner lots.

• Aurora: Requires a minimum 5-foot setback from property lines.

• Boulder County: May require greater setbacks, especially in rural zones.

These rules can change depending on zoning district, easements, or drainage considerations.

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Key Takeaways for Colorado Pool Owners

• Always verify current local requirements they can differ between cities, towns, and unincorporated areas.

• Expect to need multiple permits: building, electrical, plumbing, and possibly gas.

• Safety barriers (fences or covers) are mandatory under most adopted codes.

• Setback rules vary your contractor or building department can confirm the exact distance.

Seasonality
Colorado’s climate brings a mix of sunny summers, crisp autumns, and chilly winters meaning your swim season will vary depending on location and elevation. In lower-elevation areas like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins, fiberglass pool owners typically enjoy swimming from late May through early September, with the season easily stretching into October when paired with an energy-efficient heating system or integrated spa.

At higher elevations or mountain towns like Evergreen, Steamboat Springs, or Durango, cooler nights and shorter summers make pool heating and covers essential for maximizing swim time. Colorado’s freeze–thaw cycles, dry air, and varied soil types from sandy plains to rocky foothill terrain make fiberglass pools a smart, low-maintenance option that resists cracking, shifting, and other temperature-related wear.

Quick Fun Facts About Colorado:

Here’s some helpful info for anyone planning a backyard pool in the Centennial State!

• Average number of sunny days annually: ~300. Colorado ranks among the sunniest states in the U.S., perfect for outdoor living and poolside relaxation.

• Average summer temperature (June–August): 80–90°F on the Front Range, with cooler nights and lower humidity ideal for comfortable pool use.

• Average winter temperature (December–February): 15–45°F depending on elevation; heated pools and spas let you enjoy the water even in colder months.

• Average pool temperature: 78–85°F in summer, 70–75°F in spring/fall with heating. Solar covers help retain warmth during chilly evenings.

• Average annual precipitation: 15–20 inches in much of the state, with higher amounts in mountain regions. Lower rainfall means less debris in your pool and less time spent on cleanup.