Swimming Pool Installation Code Checklist

Main Swimming Pool Codes

• The building codes that refer to all swimming pool construction in the United States come from the International Code Council -- ICC. The original set of codes for swimming pools, adopted by the ICC in 1976, is known as the Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa, and Hot Tub Code -- USPSHT. This code has been amended many times through the years to include newer aspects of pool construction and use, such as solar heating, water conservation, and drowning prevention. The USPSHT Code, as well as the newer International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, are the overriding regulations you should have on your code checklist.

Affiliated Swimming Pool Code Agencies

• This overriding code is both a set of regulations and a guideline for all swimming pool construction and improvements, including public facilities as well as your home swimming pool. The code was developed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, and so it contains regulations pertaining to your pool's plumbing and also any machinery used to operate your pool, such as the filter pump and the water heater. Keep in mind that these overriding codes are revisited about every three years, and amendments are often added that may affect your code checklist.

Relevant Swimming Pool Codes

• The swimming pool codes that apply to you will consist of general aspects of building and maintaining your pool. Besides the plumbing and mechanical aspects, your code checklist needs to include access barriers such as walls, fences, and gates. Other safety considerations are gate locks, pool ladders, pool covers, and alarms in the pool, and on doors that have access to the pool, to alert you when anyone enters the pool or pool area.

Code Checklist Considerations

• Although the ICC oversees and administers all codes in general, the process of adopting swimming pool codes is decided on by state, county, and local governments. This is why it is so important to contact your local code enforcement agency before you start your code checklist. You can also contact your city council to read the sections of their charter that apply to swimming pool codes, and they will probably provide copies as well.