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Building Inspection and Zoning
Building Permits >
Is a Permit Required?
- All pools in excess of 75 square feet (approximately 10 feet in diameter) require a building permit.
- Any pool requiring the use of associated electrical equipment, such as a filter or a pump, requires an electrical permit, secured by a licensed electrical contractor.
Location Requirements
- Pools must be located a minimum of three (3) feet from any side lot line, five (5) feet from the rear lot line and a minimum six (6) feet from the dwelling. No pools are permitted in the front yard.
- Per the electrical code, no pool and the area extending 10 feet outside of the pool walls may be placed under overhead electrical wires unless a clearance of 22.5 feet (vertically) is provided, measured from the top edge of the pool to the wires. Also per the electrical code, no pool may be located within 5 feet of underground wiring unless the wiring is associated with the pool.
Fencing and Gate Requirements
- If any portion of the pool is 4 feet or less above the adjacent grade, a minimum 4 foot high fence must be installed to completely enclose the pool area. A wall of a dwelling or other building may be incorporated as part of the enclosure. All gates into the enclosure must be self-closing and self-locking.
- Pool entry stairs on unenclosed pools must be removable or have the ability to be secured in an upright position to prevent access into the pool when unattended.
Electrical Permit Requirements
Pools are required to have two separate electrical outlets, protected by a GFCI (ground-fault circuit-interrupter). One outlet for the filter/pump shall be located more than 5 feet from the inside edge of the pool. A convenience outlet (i.e., for a radio) must be provided and located between 10 feet and 20 feet from the inside edge of the pool.
Requirements for Draining Water From a Pool
Draining of a pool is to be through a hose or pipe and discharged into a public street, right-of-way, or storm sewer drain. Water shall not be discharged onto the ground or into a sanitary sewer system.
Permit Application Requirements
- To apply for a swimming pool permit, submit a plan showing the size, depth and location of the pool and the location of fences and gates.
- Before the pool permit is issued, an electrical permit must be issued to a licensed electrical contractor.
- Permit fees are due when permit is issued.
This information details basic code requirements to consider when contemplating swimming pool projects. Additional code requires may apply. For further information, please contact the City of West Allis Department of Building inspections and Zoning.
