Swimming Pools

In 2013 Borough Council adopted Ordinance 946 amending portions of Chapter 27 of the Code of Ordinances.  In particular, Chapter 27, Part 13, Section 1319 was amended to outline how swimming pools shall be permitted in the Borough and what conditions and requirements must be met. These zoning requirements are outlined below.

Residents are encouraged to also review the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) requirements. To review the ISPSC requirements, please click HERE.

 

ZONING REQUIREMENTS

§ 1319 Swimming Pools.

[Ord. 766, 5/16/1996, § 13.18; as amended by Ord. 882, 2/15/2007; and by Ord. 946, 3/21/2013]

Swimming pools shall be a permitted as an accessory use in all districts and shall comply with the following conditions and requirements:

A.  The pool is intended, and is to be used, solely for the enjoyment of the occupants of the principal use of the property on which it is located (including guests).

B. It may not be located, including any walks or paved areas or accessory structures adjacent thereto, closer than five feet to any property line; nor shall it be nearer to any street upon which the residence abuts than the existing setback line of the residence. In no case shall it be any closer than 20 feet to any street line.

C. All swimming pools require a zoning permit and a construction code permit. Swimming pools shall comply with all regulations as outlined in the Uniform Construction Code. [Amended by Ord. 983, 11/16/2017]

D. All materials used in the construction of pools shall be waterproof and so designed and constructed as to facilitate emptying and cleaning and shall be maintained and operating in such a manner as to be clean and sanitary at all times.

E. Water may not be discharged from a swimming pool unless discharged directly into a storm sewer facility and, in so doing, does not flow onto adjacent properties or rights-of-way.

F. Enclosed indoor pools must comply with applicable regulations pertaining to accessory structures.

G. Outdoor lighting, if any, shall be shielded and/or reflected away from adjoining properties so that no beam of light, only diffused or reflected light, enters adjoining properties.

H. If the swimming pool discontinues use, the pool shall be properly emptied and dismantled within 30 days after receiving notice from the Codes Compliance Official.

UNIFORM CONSTRUCTION CODE REQUIREMENTS

403.26-Swimming pools

(a) A swimming pool, hot tub and spa which is accessory to a one-or-two-family dwelling shall comply with all of the following:

            (1) Chapter 42 of the 2018 International Residential Code.

            (2) 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.

The above information can be viewed at www.iccchafe.org.

Spas, hot tubs, above ground swimming pools that have side walls that are twenty-four (24) inches or higher, and all in-ground swimming pools must meet the above requirements and the property owner or contractor must submit a Zoning Application and the required drawings for review. No swimming pool, spa, and hot tub shall be erected or constructed until permits are issued.  Inspections are required before the spa, hot tub or swimming pool is used.