Public pool plan check application process

You will need to prepare one physical set of scaled plans or drawings to a minimum scale of 1/4 inch to one foot. We do not accept digital plans. We recommend getting an architect or contractor to prepare plans. However, we do accept hand-drawn plans.

You will need to prepare one drawing or plan set showing:

• Proposed layout of the enclosure or fence around the entire pool
• Provide color photos of the existing enclosure or fence around the entire pool.
• Elevation of each typical section of the enclosure and gates (for example: each type of gate/door, a wall, wood fencing, wrought iron fencing, etc.)
• Any climbable structures or climbable landscaping around the pool.

See the Public Pool Construction Application and Checklist for more specifics.

• Copies of manufacturer specification sheets for all new equipment
• Equipment list with manufacturer’s make, model, and other information
• Samples or description of construction materials

See the Public Pool Construction Application and Checklist for more specifics.

Our application packet contains several forms. The ones you need to fill out depend on your project.

A new pool, spa, or spray ground, or making major renovations to an existing one, fill out:

• Public Pool Construction Application and Checklist - be sure to complete the last page of the application title: Additional Contacts for new and reconstructed pools & spas.
• Pool Data Sheet

Minor renovations to an existing pool, spa, or spray ground, fill out:

Note: You don’t need to fill out a data sheet if you’re just replacing the fencing or enclosure.

• Public Pool Construction Application and Checklist
• Pool Data Sheet

Replacing VGB covers on main drains and equalizers, fill out:

• Public Pool Construction Application and Checklist 
• VGB Data Sheet

Note: VGB covers are also called suction covers, anti-entrapment covers, anti-vortex covers, or Suction Outlet Fitting Assembly (SOFA)s. Hair can be pulled into pool drains and bodies can be trapped against pool drains if they are not protected with one of these approved covers.

VGB stands for the Virginia Graeme Baker Act, which was signed into law in 2007. The act is named after a child who died in 2002 when the suction from a spa drain entrapped her under the water. The VGB act requires that all public swimming pools and spas be equipped with anti-entrapment drain covers that comply with ASME/ANSI standards.

If you’re not sure which data sheet applies, contact our EHS Pool Plan Reviewer.

For a one- hour consultation fee, the pool plan reviewer will do a high-level check of your plans and paperwork or can meet you on site to discuss construction options. We can help make sure that your application has everything you need to submit.

• Contact us with any questions by email or request a consultation.
• Choose whether you would like an in-person meeting or a virtual meeting.
• Bring your application, plans and all documents to your in-person meeting. For a virtual meeting, be sure to digitize all your materials before the start of the meeting.

Remember that we’re not formally reviewing your project or deciding to accept or reject it. We’re just providing feedback to help you improve your application before you turn it in.

• You must submit all application materials and the fee at the same time.
• If you forget a required part of the application, we have to reject it and you have to resubmit

The Public Pool Construction Application and Checklist will guide you on everything you need.

The amount you’ll pay depends on the type of project. See the current fee schedule.

Currently, we are unable to accept electronic submissions for plan review. 

Deliver or mail your food plan check application, checklist, and fee to us using the contact information and office hours on this page. To pay by credit card, call our office.

Please note that applications won't be processed until the fee is received. 

If you choose to submit your application in person, please arrive at least an hour before closing time to allow for processing.

Timing: Our goal is to respond within 20 business days of when you submit the application packet.

If your plans are approved: We will send you an email telling you we approved the plans and that you can move on to the next step.

If your plans need changes: We will send you an email telling you why your plans weren't accepted and what you need to do.

• Revise your plans and resubmit them.
• We will review your revised plans within 20 business days of when you submit them.
• If your revised plans are accepted, you can move on to the next step.
• If your revised plans need more changes, you repeat these steps.

Do not begin construction, remodeling, or equipment replacement until you receive plan approval.

 Once your plans have been approved by Environmental Health Services:

• Submit two (2) additional sets of plans to be stamped approved by our office.
• One (1) copy of the plans to be kept at job site. One (1) copy for Building Department.

Check with the Building Department to see if they require digital plans or if they want hard copies (if so, how many).

Schedule a time with the inspector who approved your plan to have your sets of plans stamped approved.

• You need to hire a licensed contractor to install new equipment, and construct, remodel, or re-plaster your pool.   
• Look up licensed contractors at the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractor State License Board. 

Please check your approval email to see the list of inspections you need.

• It’s your responsibility to request inspections at the right times. 
• Review the pool construction inspection checklist to be sure you are ready for the inspection.
• Your final inspection includes a water chemistry test. With a passing inspection, you can go to the next step.

Any public pool, spa, or spray ground needs an operating permit. Pay a fee along with your health permit application to get this operating permit. This is different from the fee you paid earlier for the plan check process. See our fee schedule.

• The health permit needs to be renewed each year.
• You will receive the permit by mail.