POOL & SPA PERMITTING - KITCHENER
City Requirements for fences, decks, pools & hot tubs
Fences and Decks
You must obtain a permit before installing a pool more than 36”
in depth (0.91 meters). To obtain this permit, you will need to pay a
non-refundable application fee of $75.00.
In Kitchener, pool fencing needs to be at least 1.52
metres (5 feet) above grade in height, including the gate. It must have
a lock, which should be secured when not in use. If there will be chain
link fence installed around your pool, ensure that the link openings are
not more than 38 mm (1 ½ in) wide. If you have existing fencing
exceeding this size built after September 21, 1992, you will need to replace
it. The pool must also be at least 2 feet away from the fence. Always
consult your lot survey when determining where your property begins and
ends to determine how large a pool you can build.
You must also keep your pool in good repair so that
it does not pose a health and safety hazard. The water must be kept clean
and not provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
To apply for an in-ground pool permit, you must provide
the city with the following information:
- The municipal address where the pool will be
installed.
- The construction value of the pool.
- The contractors name and address.
- Site plan, including the pool location and
configuration, dimensions and their proximity to property lines, and
fencing location which indicates compliance to fence bylaws and includes
the type of construction.
When applying for an on-ground or above ground
pool permit, you must provide the above information as well as:
- Show limits of any new decking around the pool.
- If the decking is more than 24” above the
ground, additional drawings are required including floor plans, cross
section and guard details.
- Deck permits will be required when the deck surface
is greater than 24” above the adjacent ground surface.
Hot Tubs
Hot tubs are exempted from the provisions of the fencing bylaw provided
that a cover equipped with a locking device adequately secures it. This
cover must be kept locked in place when the hot tub is not in use. If
your hot tub does not have a locking cover, then you will need to ensure
that your yard is enclosed with 5-foot non-climbable fence. There are
no setback regulations for hot tubs, unless you own a corner lot, in which
case you can call the City of Kitchener Zoning Department for help with
your specific case. For more information on hot tubs and regulations please
call (519) 741-2330.
Fences & Decks
You do not require city approval to build a fence unless it is in conjunction
with a pool or a corner lot. To read the city’s fencing guidelines,
visit: http://www.city.kitchener.on.ca/pdf/fence_brochure.pdf
In a residential zone, you will need a permit if you
plan to build a deck that is more than 2 feet above final grade no matter
what size it is. If your deck will be less than two feet high there is
no minimum setback from property lines. If it is more than two feet, you
will need 1.2 metres setback from either side of the property and 4 metres
from the rear property line.
For more information, you can visit the Building Division
(City Hall, 5th floor) or call (519) 741-2433 or visit the City of Kitchener’s
website under Bylaw Enforcement.
You can access a building permit application online
at: CLICK HERE
Swimming Pool Permits Site: CLICK HERE
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