Swimming pool fence permits

Check whether you need a permit

• Whether the fence is new or existing, a permit is required before the swimming pool can be installed.
• The Swimming Pool Fence and Swimming Pool Regulation By-law PS-5 regulates the construction of the pool fence and stipulates when a permit is required.
• A permit and fence are required if has a depth of more than 75 centimetres (≈ 2 ft 5½ in) at any point; and has a surface area of more than 1 square metre (≈ 10.8 sq ft).
• Where a fitted and secured lid is provided while the unit is not in use, it is not a pool.
• A gate is not mandatory; however, the swimming pool must be completely enclosed with a fence.
• Any gate associated with a swimming pool fence or other form of access to the enclosed swimming pool must be self-closing and self-latching.
• No, a swimming pool fence permit is not required provided a permit was previously approved.
• Compliance with the setbacks will be required along with a drainage plan. This information can be emailed to zoning@london.ca.

Plan the pool and the fence

Review the Swimming Pool Fence and Swimming Pool Regulation By-law PS-5 and Fence By-law PS-6 before applying for your permit.

• Section 4.25 of the Zoning By-law regulates where a pool and associated equipment may be located on your property, and provides guidance for you and your contractor regarding how to plan the pool itself.
• Always consider the planning of the pool and the necessary fencing at the same time.
• Don't forget diving boards, change rooms, cabanas, decks, pumps, and filters as part of your permit application. Always include those details when planning your new pool and applying for your pool fence permit as their locations are regulated by the Zoning By-law as well.
• The Fence By-law PS-6 regulates non-pool fences and pool fences that exceed the minimum requirements of Swimming Pool Fence By-law PS-5.
• The inside wall of your pool must be at least 1.5 metres (≈ 4 ft 11 in) from any property line and not closer to the street than the required setback. See section 4.25 (Swimming Pools) of the Zoning By-law Z.-1.
• Typical acceptable materials include chain-link, solid wood boards, wrought iron, or other designs approved by the City. All pool fences must be of sturdy construction, capable of preventing unauthorized entry, and must meet all other requirements of the by-law.
• No, a hedge does not satisfy the requirements for a compliant pool fence or enclosure.
• A deck is permitted around a pool as an accessory structure, provided it complies with Section 4.1 (Accessory Uses) of the Zoning By-law. The presence of a deck does not remove the requirement for a compliant pool enclosure under the Swimming Pool Fence and Swimming Pool Regulations By-law - PS-5.
• A shed or deck may require a separate permit depending on the size or height. Please contact the Building Division at 519-661-4555.
• The owner of the pool/property is responsible for erecting and maintaining the fence so that it remains compliant with the by-law.
• The Swimming Pool Fence and Swimming Pool Regulations By-law - PS-5 itself doesn’t mandate a neighbour’s permission. It regulates safety and enclosure standards. If the fence is entirely on your property, you don't need the neighbour’s permission. If you plan a shared/boundary fence, the neighbour’s permission may be needed — but that's a separate private matter, not governed by PS-5.

Prepare your plans0 of 9

Documentation needed to apply for a pool fence permit

• Site plan7A site plan, including:

You need an account to see these 9 items.It’s free. Use Sign in at the top of the page to create one, then tick the items off on any device and print them as a checklist.

Complete the forms3Download the set3 forms

• The application formplease ensure it is complete and legibleForm
• A letter of Undertaking of Damage to City Property.Form
• Fence Details sheet.Form

Submit your application

• All permit submissions are to be submitted digitally; paper copies are no longer accepted.
• "Municipal Address" - Swimming Pool Fence Permit Application
• (e.g. 123 Fourth Street - Swimming Pool Fence Permit Application)
• All documents must be provided as individual .pdf files and must be clearly named. (e.g. Site Plan, Letter of Undertaking, Fence Detail Form, Permit Application)
• All digital application packages are reviewed upon submission and delays may occur if the application package is incomplete.

Pay the fee

• As of September 18, 2018, a swimming pool fence permit fee is $200 or $12.50 for every $1,000 of reported construction value - whichever is greater.
• Payment instructions will be emailed when the permit is ready for issuance .

Book the mandatory inspection

• Once your fence has been constructed call 519-661-4660 to book an inspection.
• Water may be added once a fully compliant permanent fence is installed around the pool.
• If you wish to fill the pool before the inspection, a temporary fence is required. The temporary fence must comply with all safety requirements outlined in section 5.10 of the Swimming Pool Fence and Swimming Pool Regulation By-law - PS-5.
• Before filling the pool, please notify the City at pfinspection@london.ca.
• Temporary fencing can stay in place for up to 120 days for new pools, or 30 days for existing ones, unless the City grants an extension.