Do you need a permit?
If you are building a hot tub, swimming pool, or pond that can hold water more than 60 centimetres deep, you need a building permit under the Building Code Act, 1992 and the Ontario Building Code. This covers permanent hot tubs, in-ground pools, and most above-ground pools.
Minor repairs or maintenance usually do not require a permit. If you are not sure, call us at 519-555-0100 or email [email protected].
Where can I put it?
Your pool or hot tub must follow the rules in Zoning. In most residential neighbourhoods, you must keep it at least 1.2 metres from your side and back property lines. You cannot place it in the front yard setback without a special planning approval.
Make sure there are no overhead power lines crossing your pool area. If wires are nearby, the Ontario Building Code requires them to be at least 5.0 metres away horizontally and vertically from the water.
Fence and enclosure rules
Every outdoor swimming pool must be surrounded by a fence, a building wall, or another enclosure to keep children and pets safe. The fence must meet these standards:
- Height: At least 1.8 metres high for a private pool. Public or community pools need a 2.4-metre fence.
- Gate: The gate must open outward, close by itself, and have a latch placed at least 1.5 metres above the ground. It must be lockable.
- Design: The fence cannot have horizontal bars that make it easy to climb. The space between pickets must be less than 10 centimetres so small children cannot squeeze through.
- Prohibited items: Barbed wire, electric fences, and gates that do not self-close are not allowed.
Above-ground pools: You do not need a separate fence if the pool wall itself is at least 1.8 metres high and the only way to get in is through a locked gate.
Hot tubs: A separate fence is not required if your hot tub has a safety cover that meets the ASTM F 1346 standard and has a lockable cover. The water in a hot tub must not be deeper than 1.2 metres.
How to apply
You can submit your application online through the Planning & Development portal, or you can visit us in person. Please bring your site plan, pool specifications, and any engineering stamps if your hot tub sits on a raised deck.
In-person drop-off:
Room 308, Wrenford City Hall
100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1
Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Processing time: Standard applications take about seven business days. Planning approvals may take longer if your project needs a variance from the zoning rules.
Fees
Permit fees are set out in By-laws. Typical fees include:
- Building permit for a new pool: $185.00
- Building permit for a new hot tub: $185.00
- Planning approval (if needed): $579.00
All fees are payable online, by phone, or in person at City Hall. We do not accept cash at the drop-off desk.
Inspections
Once your pool or fence is ready, you must book a final inspection with the Planning & Development department. Inspections happen Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You will receive a confirmation email with your assigned time window.
If you have questions about the Fence and Pool Enclosure By-law 2015-058 or the Ontario Building Code, contact the Chief Building Official, Wendy Szabo, at 519-555-0100 or [email protected].