Last Updated on January 1, 2023
If you are considering building a pool in your backyard, there are certain features that your Las Vegas swimming pool needs to have in place. The Department of Building and Safety has strict safety regulations that need to be met in order for you to have a pool built in your backyard. Officials use a pool inspection checklist to make sure every pool is up to code. These same items can be used to help you keep your pool secure and your loved ones safe too. Below is a list of things they will be looking for in order to approve your pool safe for use.
Table of Contents
Pool Site Requirements
The site for your pool and building plans need to be inspected. There can be no mud, flaky rust, grease, oil, or paint on any steel components. Any steel used for construction has to be sized and installed per the engineer’s details and specifications. The inspection will make sure that the engineer details are compared to the steel as it is installed. They will also be checking for water features so if you plan to use natural rock then they make sure there is an engineered pad to support the rock. For artificial rocks, make sure all engineer details are followed precisely.
Pool Barriers and Gates
Any fence or barrier needs to meet the requirements set forth by the Southern Nevada Amendments to the 2018 ISPSC. These include:
- A height not to be less than 60”
- Maximum vertical clearance between the ground and the bottom of the barrier must be 4”
Gates must meet the following requirements:
- Must be self-closing and self-latching
- Must have a height of 60” high measured from outside the enclosed area
- Must open outwards
- Latches or locking devices need to be at least 48” above the ground and a minimum of 6” from the top of the gate
- Clearance under the gate must not exceed 4”
The pool safety fence and gates are only part of any pool inspection. To get approval for a pool to be built in the yard, there are also regulations for plumbing, gas, and electrical wiring. Because pool installation involves digging, the city needs to make sure you follow proper guidelines with regard to any wiring or plumbing that you may encounter during installation. Proper drainage for the pool is also important.
Plumbing Requirements
- Water lines for the pool must be 12” deep unless they are covered by decking
- All water lines above the ground need to be painted for UV protection
- All pumps must be securely bolted down
- Drains need to be set at least 3’ apart or in different planes
- You must have a clear method for draining the pool
- A backflow prevention device must be installed to protect the potable water supply
- Must have an anti-siphon device
- There can be no plumbing done in concrete pours or slabs.
Regulations for pool installation and important to ensure that the pool is safe. It is also essential to make sure that the location is properly managed for the pool. Knowing the regulations and requirements needed for pool installation can help you prepare for the inspection and make sure your pool will be safe.