Swimming Pools

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You do not need a Building Permit to install a swimming pool.

You do need a Building Permit to:

Pool enclosures are required for all swimming pools.

You do not need a Building Permit to install a swimming pool, however you do need a Building Permit to construct the pool enclosure (fence). Pool enclosures are required for all swimming pools. The pool enclosure must be in accordance with The City of Hamilton's Swimming Pool Enclosure By-law No. 16-184 (PDF, 68.94 KB) with Amendment By-law No. 22-059 (PDF, 124.28 KB) .

You must not excavate or build a pool enclosure until you get a Building Permit. Do not put water in the pool until you have the swimming pool enclosure in place and you receive final approval from the City.

The Swimming Pool Enclosure Checklist (PDF, 641.28 KB) is required to be completed and submitted with the Enclosure Permit Application. If a Site Alteration Permit is required, it must be approved though the Growth Management Division prior to the issuance of the Enclosure Permit.

If you are planning on repairing or replacing an existing pool enclosure (fence) contact the Building Division to determine if a permit is required at 905-546-2720.

Note: If a deck is constructed in addition to or adjacent to the pool, a separate permit will be required for the deck. Structural information, an application form and permit fee will apply.

Need Help? Have Questions?

Ask our Virtual Agent

Looking to install a new swimming pool, hot tub or swim-spa? Direct your questions to our new Virtual Agent, designed to help you quickly access information about pool enclosure permits, zoning requirements and information for pool installation.

How to use the Virtual Agent? Type your question into the box showing "Type your message" and hit enter or the send arrow. The Virtual Agent will provide you with more information on the topic to help answer your question.

The City of Hamilton collects information under authority of Section 227 of the Municipal Act, 2001. Any personal information collected for the purposes of using the virtual agent will be used for making improvements to the virtual agent. By providing your email address, you are consenting to receiving emails from the City of Hamilton and/or their agents/contractors for a transcript of your conversation with the virtual agent. Information collected for this initiative may be stored on servers located in Canada and the United States and may be subject to Canadian and/or American laws. Questions about the collection of this personal information can be directed to the Manager, Plans Examination, Building Division, 71 Main Street West, 3rd Floor, 905-546-2720, or [email protected] .