Click link (above) for Building Code rules on swimming pools/hot tubs.
TIPS AND RULES FOR SAFE SWIMMING POOLS
Building Permit Required for Most Pools
GREENFIELD – As Memorial Day approaches, many families are looking forward to a home swimming pool to keep cool this summer. In Massachusetts, certain rules exist to prevent tragic drownings and other accidents.
According to Building Commissioner Mark A. Snow, the Massachusetts State Building Code regulates swimming pools and bathing structures, including hot tubs, inflatable pools, temporary pools, on-ground pools, and above-ground pools. A building permit is required for any of these structures if its water depth is greater than two feet.
“If it is used for swimming or bathing and holds 24 inches or more of water, it’s a ‘real pool’. Many consumers buy do-it-yourself or temporary pools without realizing that they must comply with the same regulations as professionally-installed pools,” said Snow.
The most important factor in safe pool construction is preventing unauthorized access. To prevent accidental drowning, pools must have a 48” tall barrier around them, plus an approved gate latch. An above-ground pool must be 48” tall at all points for its walls to satisfy the barrier requirement. Their ladders must be retractable and locking. Hot tubs can use approved covers as a barrier.
“Every year, children and family pets needlessly die because proper precautions were not taken. Homeowners can be held liable if a neighbor dies in their unsecured pool or hot tub,” said Snow. Electrocution can also occur if pool filtering equipment is improperly wired.
Snow cited adult supervision and vigilant use of safety features as extremely important.
The Building Department can guide Greenfield residents through the pool permitting/inspection process. Their office at 253 Main St. is open Monday-Friday, 8:30am to 5pm. Building applications are available at www.greenfield-ma.gov
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