Pool Permits Frequently Asked Questions

The purpose of a pool permit is to guarantee proper fencing and infrastructure are in place to ensure safe and secure pool access on personal property. The City’s Fence By-law 189-2020 (PDF) and Zoning By-law 1-88 (PDF) require a swimming pool enclosure permit for any water structure that holds a depth of 30 inches of water or more. This includes in-ground swimming pools, permanent above-ground pools such as swim spas and hot tubs, or temporary/seasonal pools that are installed in the spring and packed away at the end of the season.require a swimming pool enclosure permit for any water structure that holds a depth of 30 inches of water or more. This includes in-ground swimming pools, permanent above-ground pools such as swim spas and hot tubs, or temporary/seasonal pools that are installed in the spring and packed away at the end of the season.

The homeowner, tenant or anyone acting on their behalf may apply for a pool permit. If someone other than the homeowner applies for the permit, the applicant must provide a completed Agent Authorization Form (PDF).
 

Pool permit applications are submitted through Service Vaughan. A step-by-step guide (PDF)  is available to assist applicants with online submissions.

Permits for in-ground pool installation are valid for a period of one year. If required, the permit may be renewed for one additional year. Renewal fees will apply. Please contact the Development Engineering department at DEpermits@vaughan.ca for more information.

In-ground pool: Once an application is completed with all necessary requirements, a City Inspector will take pre-construction photos of the property as well as City sidewalk, curb and boulevard trees. The application will be reviewed for compliance with zoning, fence and lot grading criteria.

Above-ground or temporary/seasonal pool: Once an application is completed with all necessary requirements, a zoning examiner will review the submission for zoning compliance.

A City by-law enforcement officer will also visit the property to inspect the fence enclosure. After all requirements have been met, the pool permit will be issued.

Please visit the swimming pool permits page for fees.

Recent changes to the Fence By-law 189-2020 (PDF) allow for different fencing materials, including wood, chain link, metal picket and glass. Please refer to the by-law or contact the City’s By-law and Compliance Licensing and Permit Services department for more information at 905-832-2281.

Pool permit applications are submitted year-round and are, on average, processed within 10 business days. During peak pool construction season, it is possible for permit application processing to take up to 20 business days. Applicants are encouraged to include all required documentation in their initial submission to avoid any unnecessary delays.

Lot grading certification: It is best to wait for your property’s lot grading to be certified prior to starting any landscaping work, including the installation of an in-ground pool. You may still proceed with your permit application once your drawing has been stamped by the engineering consultant for your subdivision. The engineering consultant may charge for this service. As well, the developer may require a grading deposit specifically for this project. This grading deposit would be in addition to the $5,000 security deposit required by the City.
 
Subdivision Assumption: You do not need to wait for assumption to install an in-ground pool. Please follow the permit application process.

When your project is complete, please contact the City’s Development Finance department at 905-832-2281, ext. 8817 to request final inspections. During inspections, staff will confirm compliance with the issued permit and ensure there is no damage to public property or any negative impacts to adjacent properties as a result of the construction. Upon satisfactory completion of all required inspections, the security deposit will be returned.

TRCA has an online Regulated Area Search tool where homeowners can complete property searches.

You are required to have your fence enclosure inspected by a By-law Enforcement Officer before the pool is filled with water. To schedule this inspection, please contact the Development Finance department at 905-832-2281, ext. 8817.

All payments are made online through the portal with either Visa, Master Card, Amex, Visa/Debit or Debit Master Card.