Planning permission for swimming pools

Installing a swimming pool in your home makes a statement, adds to its aesthetics and helps to improve your quality of life. However, the decision to install a pool in your home isn’t one to be taken lightly and requires some adjustments to your existing property. Whether planning permission is required or not for your installation depends largely on the type of pool.

Fortunately, most domestic swimming pools don’t need any planning permission but restrictions can apply depending on the size, where you would like your pool to be, and each local authority’s ruleset. For peace of mind, we suggest double-checking with your local council.

Being prepared to consult with the local council planning department helps make the process of planning permission smoother if you do need to submit your plans to the local planning authority.

Indoor swimming pool planning requirements

Typically, an Indoor Pool that will be installed in an already existing room or outbuilding does not require any planning permission to be installed in your home. Adding an extension, or what is known as a pool hall, to your property also falls within ‘permitted development’ rights, which allow certain building works and changes of use to be completed without the need for a planning application.

However, there are limits to the height, size, and location which may mean your indoor pool falls outside of permitted development rights. Specifically, an indoor pool’s construction must not be higher than four metres and surpass a total area of 90m2.

If your pool falls outside of these tolerances, planning permission may be required. Homeowners whose properties are on protected land will have to obtain this when making any changes to their homes.

These protected land areas cover:

• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Conservation Areas
• National Parks
• The Broads
• World Heritage Sites

Planning permission for outdoor swimming pools

Similar to planning permission for indoors, Outdoor Swimming Pool installations and constructions usually do not need to be approved by the local planning authority. These works commonly fall under garden projects, which are permitted development rights that homeowners can take advantage of.

Size and area aren’t the only considerations for planning permission, and sustainability is also a factor in the decision-making process. Compass Pools outdoor swimming pools are specifically designed to retain heat and use less energy, meaning that if planning permission is required, the lower energy and heat loss qualities of our pools will work in your favour.

Basement pool installations

Putting a basement pool in your home is a smart and elegant way to make use of space that may otherwise be wasted. However, if your home doesn’t already have a basement dug out, then planning permission for the excavation work and potential structural reinforcement will be required.

Each local authority will have its own rules and restrictions on how large and deep a basement can be. Fortunately, our luxury One Piece Swimming Pools are the perfect installation for a basement as they come in a variety of shapes and sizes ready to fit any space.

Natural pool planning permission

How your swimming pool is heated and cleaned also impacts the planning permission granted by local authorities, especially those that require additional energy or pose a risk to the environment through the chemicals used.

However, our natural pools are an ideal alternative as they don’t use any harsh chemicals and as they are warmer than conventional pools, they can be warmed by the sun and that natural heat is then retained with dark liners and covers.

Natural Swimming Pools installed by Compass Pools blend seamlessly into their environment. They are the ultimate garden project and, like other outdoor pool installations, typically do not need planning permission.

Bespoke swimming pool installations with Compass Pools

We have over 30 years’ experience in designing, planning and installing swimming pools across a variety of property types and locations. Whether you are looking to create a garden feature to be proud of with an outdoor pool, want to improve your fitness with a Lap Pool or want the ultimate in luxury with an Infinity Pool, we are here to help.

Get in touch with a friendly member of our team via our contact page to discuss your pool project and arrange a consultation. Alternatively, call us on 0333 4567 111 to request a brochure.

FAQs

How close to a boundary can I build a swimming pool?

Providing your pool doesn’t exceed the size limitations imposed by your local authority, pools can be installed without planning permission if they are no less than one metre from your boundary. Additionally, pools must be no less than five metres from the house.

Do you need building regulations approval for outdoor swimming pools?

Building regulations approval isn’t something typically required for an outdoor pool as there aren’t many structures associated with them. To remain classified as an outdoor pool, it must not be enclosed and not have heated air surrounding the pool area, if either of these elements are added then building regulation approval may be required.