Property owners are required to obtain a building permit for the installation of most pools, hot tubs, or spas. These permitting and inspection requirements are in accordance with the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

A zoning and building permit is needed if the pool, hot tub, or spa meets the following definition:

Residential Pool:  Any pool or structure that contains water 24” or deeper or has a surface area greater than 150 sq ft or has a capacity of 5,000 gallons or more that’s intended for swimming use that is accessory to a residential setting and available only to the household and its guests.  Other pools shall be considered to be public pools for purposes of this code.

Put more simply, a permit is needed for a pool that meets any of the below criteria:

• Has a surface area greater than 150 square feet
• Holds more than 5,000 gallons of water
• Has a water depth greater than 24 inches.

Almost every pool and hot tub, whether above ground or inground, meets these criteria.

The Pittsylvania County Building Inspections Office charges a $75.00 fee for residential swimming pool permits. Multiple inspections are typically conducted after the permit is issued, and the final inspection cannot be approved until the pool barrier is in place.

A pool cannot legally be used without a barrier. Failure to provide a required barrier can result in safety and liability issues for the owner.

Building Permit Application

This building permit application can be submitted in person at 53 North Main Street, Chatham, VA 24531, via fax to 434-432-7919, or via email. 

If you are questions about the permitting and inspections process for pools and hot tubs, please contact the Building Inspections office at 434-432-7755.