Rules and Regulations
Rules & Regulations
Owning a pool is a lot of fun. But it also comes with its fair share of responsibility in keeping everyone who uses it safe. Washington has several laws that apply throughout the state, as well as local regulations that may be more stringent. It’s important to take stock of these laws to ensure your pool is compliant. Working with a professional builder can help you better understand the most recent pool laws in Washington, as well as your responsibilities as a pool owner.
Here are some of the most common questions prospective Washington pool owners have around state and local regulations.
Do you have to have a fence around a pool in Washington state?
Yes. The Washington state Department of Health mandates that a pool must be surrounded by fencing at least 4 feet (48 inches) high with self-closing, self-latching gates. If an exterior wall of the home serves as part of a pool barrier, any doors or windows leading to the pool area must be equipped with a compliant alarm system.
Washington State also gives pool owners the option of an automatic safety pool cover to use as a barrier. All safety covers must meet rigid state standards in order to negate the need for a fence that meets Washington state regulations.
Although these pool fencing requirements apply state-wide, individual cities and counties have even stricter laws around pool fencing. For example, Wenatchee, WA requires that all inground pools be surrounded by a 5-foot tall fence, although neighboring East Wenatchee only requires a fence that is 4 feet high.
Because laws change over time and your city or town may have their own unique requirements, it’s important for Washingtonians to check with their local building office to be sure pool fencing meets all applicable safety standards.
Do you need a permit to build an inground pool in Washington state?
Although there is no statewide mandate for a permit to build a residential inground pool in Washington, different townships, counties, and cities require you to have a permit before breaking ground on a new swimming pool – or if you plan to make any renovations to an existing pool.
For instance, Olympia, WA does not require a permit for an above-ground swimming pool, but will require a permit for an inground swimming pool more than 3 feet deep or capable of holding more than 5,000 gallons of water. Additionally, work associated with installing an inground pool – such as plumbing, excavation, or yard sprinkler systems would require permits.
King County – home to Washington’s largest city, Seattle – also requires a permit for inground swimming pools deeper than 3 feet and that hold more than 5,000 gallons of water. In addition, homeowners may require a Public Health permit if the pool will sit on a property with an on-site sewage system. Seattle also requires additional permits for pool accessories, such as decking and sheds.
Yakima, WA also requires several different permits, bundled together in a packet, that must be completed before breaking ground on a new residential pool. These permits include a swimming pool permit, plumbing permit and mechanical permit, which should also be accompanied by a detailed site plan checklist. Not included in this packet are electrical permits, which must be issued by Washington State Labor & Industries.
Because state and local laws can change over time and differ across municipalities, be sure to check with your local building office to ensure you have the proper permits for your pool to be compliant. Working with a local builder can help you get a better handle on what permits you’re responsible for obtaining, as well as be well-versed in the latest laws.
Seasonality
How to Make the Most of a Pool in Washington
Even though Washington has its fair share of rain and crisp weather, it’s still a great place to enjoy a pool. Thoughtful planning can help you make the most of your pool.
• Install a heater. Adding a heating element to your pool can make the water warm and welcoming any time you want to soak your cares away.
• Choose the right type of pool. A smaller pool may be easier to heat and maintain. Similarly, a model with a built-in spillover spa can give you a cozy corner of your pool when temperatures take a tumble.
• Invest in an autocover. An autocover can be an effective barrier against rainfall, which can compromise water chemistry. Similarly, an autocover can also reduce water evaporation and maintain more even water temperature – especially if your pool is heated.
• Install a fire pit. Thinking about all of the elements surrounding your pool also contributes to the bigger picture. Adding a fire pit to your patio can give you a place to warm up, toast some s’mores – and raise a toast to friends – poolside.
