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Master Formation Pools and Spas - Codes
DEED RESTRICTIONS
You may find restrictions in the deed to your property that can affect the location and even the design of your pool, spa, and coexisting structures. You may also be bound to rules set by your homeowners' association. Finally, you may need a utility easement or a right-of-way under, over, or through your property. While the homeowners' association rules can be changed by a vote of the members, that doesn't mean it's going to be easy. Try to avoid any problems in the first place by reviewing the rules before you begin. Deed restrictions, on the other hand, can only be changed by a shared agreement among all of the parties bound by the restrictions, or by a court action.
BUILDING CODES
Aimed at protecting you from poor or sloppy construction methods, these codes set the minimum standards for the design, construction methods, and the materials used in building projects. Some communities have specific codes for pools and spas; others apply the requirements of their regular building code. While most local codes are patterned after one of the national codes, communities can modify or add to these standards to satisfy local needs. Check with your city’s building permit department early in the planning stage. You may actually have fewer options than were first apparent.
An oversight here can result in hugely expensive changes and extensive rebuilding if the inspector discovers a violation of which you weren't aware. Inspectors are not inclined to be very flexible or understanding either, so check the codes. Most of this information can be found in the closing documents on your home and in your homeowner’s association building forms.
HEALTH AND SAFETY CODES
Your community may have specific laws covering different aspects of pool ownership. Things like the water quality, any required lifesaving equipment, and the protective fences and gates may be governed by codes. These requirements can bring a quick stop to your construction project if they are not addressed in time. For example, a distance of a couple of blocks may put you into a suburban community that requires pool fencing, regardless of whether or not the yard itself is fenced. Waiting for a fence to be ordered and installed can result in an unexpected delay of weeks!
Some communities combine terms for pool construction into their health and safety codes, rather than into their building code. You need to consult both your local health and building departments to determine pool requirements and the jurisdiction each department has in pool construction and operation.
In many cases, Master Formation Pools and Spas tries to acquire some, or most, of the paperwork for you, our customer.