Rules and Regulations
Rules & Regulations
A pool can certainly bring the fun to your backyard. But it also comes with its fair share of responsibility. If you’re planning on owning a pool in Michigan, it’s important to look into state and local laws to ensure your pool is compliant and up-to-code.
Because state and local laws can change over time, it’s important to do your homework before breaking ground on your pool, as these laws are meant to keep everyone safe and your backyard a place of joy and merriment. Working with a professional builder can help you more easily navigate the most recent codes, as well as help you secure the proper permits to build your new pool.
Here are some of the most common questions about pool regulations throughout the state of Michigan.
Do you need a fence for a pool in Michigan?
Michigan requires that all residential pools must be surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet high) on all sides. In addition, Michigan requires that there must be at least one entrance, which should be equipped with a self-closing, self-latching mechanism. Michigan prohibits the use of a sliding door-type entrance on appropriate pool fencing that meets statewide standards.
If you have a balcony within 10 feet of your pool or overlooking your pool, Michigan also requires that this balcony or overhanging area be fully enclosed to prevent people from diving off of the balcony and into your pool.
In addition to adhering to statewide pool regulations that blanket Michigan, your local municipality may have more stringent requirements around fencing. Some areas may require a higher fence, however, other cities – such as East Lansing, MI, for instance, require that fencing not exceed 6 feet in height, above grade. So, while you’d need to have a barrier of at least 4 feet high, the city may deem anything above 6 feet as too high and out of compliance with local laws.
Because laws can change over time, it’s important to confirm that your fencing meets the most recent codes. Working with a licensed professional builder can help you better understand the most current updates to any state and local pool laws in Michigan.
Do you need a permit to build a pool in Michigan?
Yes. The state of Michigan requires a building permit for all residential pools. This definition applies to any structure that contains water over 24 inches (2 feet) deep, including inground and above-ground pools, as well as spas and jacuzzis.
Depending on where you live in Michigan, you may be responsible for additional permits to ensure your pool meets all local codes. For instance, Dearborn, MI requires a residential pool permit, but may also require additional permits for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work associated with your pool project, as well as for a deck structure.
Similarly, Brighton, and Saginaw, MI also require additional permits and inspections for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical elements associated with a pool installation.
Because permitting fees and requirements may change over time and based on your location, be sure to consult your local building office to confirm which permits you’re responsible for obtaining prior to beginning work on your pool. Working with a licensed professional builder can help you better understand which permits are required to ensure your pool meets state and local building codes.
How deep can a pool be in Michigan?
Michigan has laws surrounding how deep your pool can be, which are based on the square footage and categorization of your pool. For instance, any pool smaller than 800 square feet should have a depth no greater than 5.25 feet, and should also have a shallow area for walking and standing. Smaller wading pools should be no deeper than 1.5 feet, while spas cannot exceed 4 feet in depth.
In addition to making sure your pool complies with these regulations, the state also requires depth markers to clearly indicate how deep or shallow a section of your pool may be.
As laws can change over time, it’s important to check with your local building office to confirm the most recent policies to ensure your pool is compliant. Working with a licensed professional builder can also help you better understand these laws and which apply to you and your new pool.
How tall does a pool fence have to be in Michigan?
Michigan requires that all pools must be surrounded by a self-latching, self-closing fence or barrier at least 4 feet high. However, some cities, towns and municipalities have more stringent restrictions – and also have limits on just how high your fence can be. For example, East Lansing and Waterford, MI are two cities that require that any fencing not exceed 6 feet in height.
Your city or township may have their own requirements, so be sure to check with your local building office to be sure your fencing meets the minimum – or maximum – height requirements.
Seasonality
Seasonal Pool Maintenance in Michigan
If you own a pool in Michigan, there are a few tips to keep in mind to help you get more enjoyment out of your pool through the seasons. .
• Spring: Many Michigan residents open their pools between April and June, depending on when temperatures sit comfortably above 60 degrees. Once your pool is open and spring has sprung, stay on top of skimming your pool, as pollen grains can clog your pool’s filtration, if left unchecked. On a more serious note, early spring and late winter also coincide with flood season in Michigan, so take care to secure your pool if your home is located in a flood zone.
• Fall: Autumn weather in Michigan tends to be on the chillier side. If you have a heated pool or spillover spa, you can regularly enjoy a relaxing soak before harsh winter weather sets in. To wring as many memorable moments out of your pool during fall, an autocover can help keep autumn leaves out of your pool, reducing the need for skimming and re-balancing your water. If left to sit, leaves can contribute to algae growth.
• Winter: All good things must come to an end – and that includes pool season. To close your pool for winter, be sure all air is removed from water lines and pool equipment. Many Michigan pool owners close their pools in October. While you can do it yourself, you can also tap a professional to help you properly close. Consider purchasing a winter pool cover to help safeguard your pool from heavy snowfall.
Preparing Your Michigan Pool In the Event of a Flood
• Lake effect snow isn’t the only thing that hits Michigan hard on a seasonal basis. Some parts of the state are prone to flooding, particularly in late winter or early spring due to a combination of melting snow, rain and rising temperatures. Southeast Michigan saw one of the most devastating floods in the state’s history in 1986, while Detroit has also flooded within the past decade. West Michigan, particularly Grand Rapids, also experiences flooding.
• Michigan’s proximity to rivers and lakes, also make it more susceptible to flash floods and landslides. The impact of these natural disasters can be intensified in urban areas like Detroit that lack greenery to absorb precipitation.
• Water from floods can carry dirt and debris into your pool, which can either scratch your pool’s surface or contribute to poor water quality, chemical imbalances, and algae growth. It can also damage decking and filtration systems.
• While ensuring the safety of your family is first and foremost, if you own a pool in Michigan, there are some ways you can protect your pool in the advance of a flood to mitigate damages.
• Perhaps the most important tip to prepare your pool in the event of a flood is to turn off all power to pool equipment, including your pump and filtration systems, any breakers, pool lights, and heaters. While this may not prevent damage to the equipment itself if your home is in a flood area, it can help prevent dangerous electrical issues from occurring. If possible, elevate your pool equipment on a platform, or take it indoors to an attic or higher floor to protect it.
• If you have the space to store them, consider placing sandbags around your pool. This can help protect your pool from flood waters and runoff.
• Additionally, do not store pool or patio furniture in your pool in the event of a flood. Instead, bring them indoors.
• After the waters have subsided, be prepared to clean up any debris in or around your pool. You’ll also need to rebalance your water chemistry or even shock your pool.
