Do I need planning permission for a swimming pool?
Installing a swimming pool in your garden or at home is about more than digging a hole and filling it!
It represents a significant financial outlay, and it’s a building project that takes time, meaning it’s essential to make
sure you meet all of the requirements.
Nobody wants to discover later that their stunning new pool doesn’t comply with the relevant planning rules and
regulations.
Will I need planning permission for a swimming pool?
Whether you need planning permission for a swimming pool depends on a number of factors, including where the
swimming pool will be located, what type of pool it is, and the rules and regulations applicable in your area.
In general, if a pool is at least five meters from the house, it usually does not require planning permission. There are
exceptions to this rule, so it makes sense to check.
Although outdoor pools are usually exempt from planning permission, the rules for listed buildings, designated
areas, or properties in a naturally beautiful environment are usually different.
With that in mind, it’s essential to do your homework to ensure your project complies with the relevant regulations.
Do you need planning permission to dig a swimming pool?
For those curious to know if they need swimming pool planning permission when they’re digging the pool itself,
there are factors to keep in mind.
The location, size, and design of your swimming pool are all important.
For example, zoning regulations should be considered; every area has a specific set of rules relating to land use.
These can determine the types of structure are permitted in residential, commercial or industrial zones.
If you’re planning to dig at a property in a conservation area and are wondering ‘Does a swimming pool need
planning permission?,‘ then, yes – there are usually restrictions applied in that setting to safeguard the environment,
historical buildings, or nearby natural beauty.
If your property is a listed building, you may need special approval if you want to dig a swimming pool.
to be authorised.
In terms of size, while rules vary, there are some things you need to consider. For instance, it’s important to measure
the distance between the proposed pool and a property’s boundary.
A pool that’s situated close to a boundary may risk breaching the privacy of your neighbours and could block out
sunlight.
As mentioned above, if you’re asking ‘Do I need planning permission for a swimming pool?,‘ it’s important to
note the design of your swimming pool matters too.
A new pool should be designed with due consideration of the architectural layout of its surroundings.
Planning authorities may also look at safety features such as fencing, covers, and alarms.
They may also flag environmental issues too like drainage, water usage, and energy efficiency.
For that reason, it’s always advisable consult professionals in the field of swimming pool design who will be able to
give appropriate and informed advice to guarantee your project doesn’t fall foul of the relevant regulations.
Do you need planning permission for an indoor swimming pool UK?
Indoor swimming pools in the UK typically do not require planning permission because adding one to your home is
usually considered permitted development.
However, there are specific conditions to meet.
For example, an indoor pool will not normally require planning permission if it’s located behind the building line of
the front elevation of your property.
It will also not need planning permission if it’s a single-story building with a maximum overall height of four metres
with a dual-pitched roof, or three metres for any other roof.
It will also need to not have a veranda, a balcony, or a raised platform.
On top of this, the pool building cannot occupy more than half the area of land around the original house.
Do you need planning permission for an outdoor swimming pool?
Outdoor swimming pools typically do not require planning permission as planning authorities generally classify
them as garden projects.
However, there are exceptions and a few points to note, for example if your outdoor pool will be located in an area
of outstanding natural beauty, on the green belt, at a listed building, or in conservation areas.
In addition, a swimming pool should be at least one metre from your property’s boundary and no less than five metres from the house.
Can I put a pool right next to my house?
When considering whether to locate a pool next to your house, there are a few things to keep in mind, not least how would it look? Would it impact the view from your home?
For safety reasons, as mentioned previously, a pool should be at least one away from a property’s boundary. This will help reduce the risk of accidents, and facilitates proper maintenance.
If you install a swimming pool next to your house, it can cause other issues related to its weight or increased water and soil moisture might impact the house’s foundations or walls.
Swimming pool design by Portrait Pools
We’re experts when it comes to the design, planning, and installation of a ![]()
swimming pool at your home.
Informed by years of expertise in constructing home indoor swimming pools, commercial swimming pools, spas and
saunas, we’re happy to collaborate with you on a project that enhances your space in the most stunning way.
