Rules and Regulations
Maryland has several laws that blanket the state to ensure your pool is at the heart of many happy and safe moments for you and your loved ones. Before breaking ground on a new pool, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with some of these state and local regulations to be sure your pool is compliant.
Although there are some overarching laws that apply broadly across the whole of Maryland, your city or county may have even more prohibitive laws around pool ownership. Do your research beforehand to be sure your pool is up-to-code. Working with a professional builder can help you better understand the latest Maryland pool codes, as well as help you secure the proper permits.
Do you need a permit to build a pool in Maryland?
The state of Maryland requires that all pool owners have a General Permit for Discharges from Swimming Pools and Spas. This permit is designed to ensure that any pools connected to public sewer lines obtain permission from these entities and properly dispose of pool water containing chlorine. For pools that are not connected to these community resources, the permit ensures owners follow proper disposal protocols so that pool water does not empty into natural streams or seep into the ground, causing environmental damage.
While this permit is required for all Marylanders who have a pool, your city, township or county may require you to apply for additional permits to ensure your pool is compliant with local laws.
For instance, Frederick County, Maryland requires a building permit for all pools. The county defines a pool as “any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 24 inches deep. This includes in-ground, aboveground, and on-ground pools, hot tubs and spas.” Additional permits may be required, such as a health review fee permit if the property uses a well or septic system, a Minor Grading Permit for in-ground pools above 5,000 square feet or that require 100 cubic yards of earth to be moved, as well as electrical and plumbing permits.
Caroll County, Maryland including such cities as Manchester, Woodbine, Westminster and Hampstead is part of the Baltimore metropolitan area. The county requires a building permit and electrical permit for all pools, but only requires an electrical permit for hot tubs and spas.
As laws can change over time and vary depending on where you live, it’s important to check with your local building office to ensure that you have applied for the proper permits before breaking ground on your new pool. Working with a local builder can also help you to more confidently understand what permits you are responsible for to ensure your pool is up to all applicable state and local codes.
Can you have a pool without a fence in Maryland?
No. You cannot have a pool without proper fencing in Maryland. At minimum, pool fencing must be at least 48 inches (4 feet) high, with self-closing, self-latching gates and outfitted with a lock.
While this general requirement around pool fencing applies throughout the state, different cities and counties may have more stringent laws around pool fencing. For instance, Prince George’s County mandates that all fencing surrounding a pool must be a minimum of 6 feet high.
While most cities and counties throughout Maryland define a pool as any receptacle that can hold more than 24 inches (3 feet) of water, Montgomery County, MD defines a swimming pool as any water-holding vessel with a depth of at least 18 inches. Montgomery County has even more rigid requirements around pool fencing and alarms, requiring a regulation height fence of at least 5 feet high that must surround the pool completely. If a wall of a home is part of the pool barrier, any doors leading to the pool must be outfitted with an audible alarm or the pool must have an automatic safety cover.
Because laws change periodically and individual townships may have more prohibitive requirements than those of the state of Maryland, it’s essential to check with your local building office to be sure your pool fencing meets all regional safety standards.
How much setback do you need for a pool in Maryland?
While there are no specific statewide laws around how far a pool can be from a home in Maryland, in many cases, setback requirements may vary depending on the size of your home and the size of the parcel of land where your pool will be located. For instance, Talbot County, MD determines setback requirements based on zoning and property size.
Conversely, Cheverly, MD – in Prince George’s County and a stone’s throw from Washington, D.C. – requires that swimming pools “shall not be any nearer than eight (8) feet from the side or rear lot lines or from any house, building or residence. All such pools shall be at least fifteen (15) feet back of the front building line.” The county also requires that pools shall not extend to any front lawn or any existing house on adjacent property.
As pool setback requirements can vary from depending on the county or city where you live, be sure to consult your local building office to confirm your pool meets local building and setback codes. A licensed pool professional can also help you more easily understand these laws and ensure your pool is constructed accordingly.
Seasonality
Seasonal Tips for Fiberglass Pool Owners in Maryland
Beyond incorporating features that can help you enjoy your pool as much as possible, here are a few seasonal pool maintenance tips for Maryland pool owners:
• Spring: Maryland’s spring season brings tree pollen from maples, oaks, and pines that can quickly cloud pool water and clog filters. Be sure to skim your pool weekly and check your filter often, as pollen combined with warming water can create a breeding ground for algae.
• Summer: Maryland summers are hot and humid, with frequent thunderstorms that can send leaves, branches, and debris into pools. Regular skimming, balancing your pool chemistry, and brushing surfaces can help prevent algae growth. After heavy storms, test your water to ensure chlorine and pH levels remain balanced.
• Fall: Maryland is famous for its colorful fall foliage, which looks beautiful but creates extra work for pool owners. Falling leaves can stain pool surfaces and encourage algae growth if left too long. Use a leaf net or automatic cover to keep your pool clear, and continue skimming and balancing water chemistry to extend your season, especially if you’re using a heater or spa feature.
• Winter: Unlike southern states, most Maryland homeowners need to fully winterize their pools. This includes lowering the water level, blowing out water lines, protecting equipment, and securely covering the pool to withstand snow and ice. While many homeowners close their pools themselves, professional winterization can help prevent costly damage during Maryland’s freezing winters.
Preparing for a new pool is exciting, but planning ahead for seasonal maintenance is just as important. Whether you’re considering a fiberglass or vinyl liner pool, understanding how Maryland’s four-season climate impacts pool care will help you protect your investment and enjoy your backyard oasis year-round.
