Building an indoor swimming pool is perhaps one of the most exciting home renovation projects you can embark on.
However, it’s also one that needs careful research and planning to ensure that is it is completed safely and in accordance with all relevant building and local planning authority regulations.
One of the most important factors to consider before starting your project is whether you’ll require planning permission to build your pool. Building a pool without first checking if planning permission is required could be disastrous and result in fines or being ordered to remove the unauthorised work.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about planning permission for indoor pools to ensure that your project gets off on the right foot.
What is planning permission?
Some major home development and renovation projects require the owner to get approval from their local planning authority (LPA) before they can start work. This formal approval is called planning permission. When deciding whether or not to grant planning permission, the local authority considers whether the proposed development adheres to national and local guidelines and regulations and the impact it will have on the environment and the local community.
Can I build a swimming pool without planning permission?
So, do you need planning permission for an indoor swimming pool?
Some indoor swimming pools can be built without planning permission, but it depends on the details of your project, including the size of the pool, where you’re building it, and your local authority’s rules. It’s always best to partner with an experienced architect like the team at Portrait Pools or consult your local planning authority before starting to build.
You may be able to build an indoor pool in an external building without planning permission, provided the building is single storey, does not cover more than half of the area around your house, and does not have a veranda, balcony, or raised platform. However, planning permission may be required if your indoor pool is higher than 4 metres or larger than 90m2.
If you wish to build an extension on your home to house your new pool, you will almost certainly require planning permission. Additionally, any pool construction on protected land will require approval.
Which factors might affect planning approval for an indoor pool?
If your indoor swimming pool does require planning permission, then your local planning authority will consider several factors when deciding whether to grant permission.
Where you want to build the pool
If your property is located within a conservation area, there are usually stricter guidelines as to what type of structures can be built to help preserve the natural environment. Equally, if there are
neighbouring properties close by, the local planning authority will need to consider whether your indoor pool structure will overshadow or overlook their property, cost them their privacy, or generate disruptive noise.
Your pool’s size and design
The size and design of your proposed pool will also be taken into consideration. Permission may be denied if your pool design is particularly large and overbearing or if the design or materials are not in keeping with the surrounding properties. This will be particularly pertinent if your property is a listed building or situated close to other heritage assets.
Environmental impact
The council will also consider the sustainability of your indoor pool design. Incorporating energy efficiency measures and eco-friendly materials may improve your chances of getting approval. If you plan to build your pool in an area that has ecological significance, then the LPA must ensure that it won’t negatively impact wildlife.
If you think you may need planning permission to build your indoor pool, our team of experts at Portrait Pools can help you design a pool that not only meets your vision but also maximises the chances of gaining planning approval.
Steps to follow when applying for planning permission
The planning portal website provides extensive information and resources to help guide you through the process of applying for planning permission.
The first thing you should do is determine whether your pool project requires planning permission, as some designs may fall under permitted development rights.
If you do require planning permission, it can help to consult with your local planning authority and our team of specialists here at Portrait Pools before designing your pool to identify any potential issues and improve your application’s chance of success.
When applying for planning permission, you will need to submit specific documentation along with your online application form. The required documentation includes architectural plans and supporting planning statements.
After you have submitted your application and paid the application fee, your local planning authority will review your application and let you know if any further information is required. Once they have everything they need, the statutory consultation period begins. During this time, a planning officer will visit the site to assess the impact of your proposed development.
Depending on the size and scale of your pool design, a decision is usually made within 8 to 13 weeks.
What are the benefits of having a planning-approved indoor pool?
An indoor pool can significantly enhance your and your family’s quality of life and add value to your property. When you follow the correct procedure and apply for planning permission if required, you avoid running into potentially stressful and expensive problems later down the line
Indoor swimming pool design and installation by Portrait Pools
At Portrait Pools, we have been designing and building bespoke indoor pools for almost 35 years. We can guide you through every stage of the process, from the initial concept to the finishing touches. We’ve designed and built swimming pools in a variety of settings and can help you determine whether planning permission is required. If it is, we’ll work with you to design a pool that meets your needs while increasing the likelihood of approval from your local planning authority.
If you’re seeking a more personalised answer to the question, ‘Do you need planning permission for an indoor swimming pool?’ feel free to contact us today by calling 01625 466200 or filling out our online contact form.
