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1. What is the difference between an approval and a permit?

An approval allows a new pool, wading pool, special use pool, spa or bathing lake to be constructed, or an existing pool, wading pool, special use pool, spa or bathing lake to be constructed or remodeled. A permit allows a pool, spa or bathing lake to be used and operated.

For example, when the engineering plan review process for a new swimming pool project is completed an Approval To Construct is issued to allow the construction of the swimming pool to commence. After construction of the swimming pool is completed and it has passed all inspections an Approval Of Construction is issued. Once the Approval Of Construction is issued, an operations and maintenance compliance inspection of the swimming pool is performed and an operating permit is issued. When the operating permit is issued the swimming pool is allowed to be used and operated as stipulated by the conditions of its permit.

2. What types of approvals are issued by the Swimming Pools Program?

The following types of approvals are issued by the Swimming Pools Program: - Approval To Construct/Approval Of Construction - Approval To Remodel/Approval Of Remodel

3. When can I start construction on my project?

Construction may commence once an Approval To Construct certificate has been issued.

4. When is an approval required?

An approval must be obtained for a public and semi-public pool, wading pool or special use pool, spa or artificial bathing lake when:
- A new pool, spa or bathing lake is to be constructed.
- An existing pool, spa or bathing lake is to be modified and the modification affects the shape, depth or water circulation system; modification of a disinfection system; resurfacing of the pool interior or deck; addition of a water feature or planter; installation of diving equipment; or modification of the enclosure.
- A change in use of an existing semi-public swimming pool, spa or bathing lake to a public swimming pool, spa or bathing lake.
- A change in use of an existing private residential swimming pool, spa or bathing lake to a public or semi-public swimming pool, spa or bathing lake.

5. How long do I have to complete construction of my project?

Construction must be substantially complete within one year after the date of issue of an Approval To Construct or Approval To Remodel or else the approval expires.

6. Can I renew an expired approval?

An expired Approval To Construct or Approval To Remodel can be renewed once within an 18 month period from its date of original issue provided the original design is unchanged.

An Approval To Construct or Approval To Remodel application must be submitted with a check for the renewal fee. The renewal fee is equal to one-half the fee amount originally charged for the project. The renewal grants a one year extension from the date the approval expired.

If an Approval To Construct or Approval To Remodel has expired and cannot be renewed because it was previously renewed or the design of the project has changed, then a new project approval must be obtained.

7. When can I start using my pool, spa or bathing lake?

A newly constructed public and semi-public pool, wading pool or special use pool, spa or artificial bathing lake may be used once an operating permit has been issued. An existing pool, spa or bathing lake that has been remodeled can be used once the Approval of Remodel has been issued.