Rules on Pools: Ferndale Ordinances on Swimming Pool Construction

With temperatures already reaching the 90s this summer, who wouldn't love a nice pool in which to cool off?

If you're thinking about installing one, be sure to familiarize yourself with the city's pool ordinance first.

Residents are required to get a permit for most above-ground pools, said Derek Delacourt, Ferndale's Community and Economic Development director.

In most cases, an electrical, mechanical and building permit ($50 each) must be pulled, and an inspection is done after the installation is complete.

"Especially where water is involved and the safety of residents, and especially children, is involved, you want to make sure that it's installed properly," Delacourt said, pointing out that most people hire a professional for the installation. "It's to make sure that the residents are getting the work they're paying for, and that it's installed properly and that it's safe for their use."

Here are the city's requirements for swimming pool construction.

1. Obtain Pool Ordinance No. 594.
2. Building, Electrical, and Plumbing Permits are required.
3. A site plan is required. For an example of a site plan, contact the Building Department at 248-546-2366.
4. All pools permanent or portable over 12 inches deep require a fence not less than 48 inches in height and a self-locking and closing device on all gates.
5. All overhead wires must be 10 feet horizontally away from the pool edge, platforms, diving structure and observation stands.
6. All fences to be grounded with 5/8" x 8' galvanized or copper clad rod.
7. Pool bonding grid #8 AWG solid copper wire not to be broken.
8. Wading and kiddie pools must be protected by vacuum breakers on hose bibs.
9. Swimming pools must be protected by backflow preventor down stream from water meter plus vacuum breakers on hose bibs.
10. Additional electrical requirements and a detailed diagram are available by contacting the Electrical Inspector at 248-546-2366.

Check out the full ordinance here or call 248-546-2366 for more information.