STANDARD

SWIMMING POOL CODE

1999 EDITION

FIRST PRINTING

COPYRIGHT© 1999

BY
SOUTHERN BUILDING CODE CONGRESS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
900 MONTCLAIR ROAD
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35213-1206
205-591-1853
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
NOTE: The SBCCI Standard Codes are designed for adoption by state or local governments by reference only. Jurisdictions adopting them
may make necessary additions, deletions and amendments in their adopting document. Incorporation of any part of the SBCCI Standard Codes
in codes published by states, local governments, regulatory agencies, individuals or organizations is expressly prohibited. When your
jurisdiction has adopted one or more of the SBCCI Standard Codes, please send a copy of the adopting document to the SBCCI headquarters
office.

FIRST PRINTING

COPYRIGHT© 1999

BY
SOUTHERN BUILDING CODE CONGRESS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
900 MONTCLAIR ROAD
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35213-1206
205-591-1853
PRINTED IN U.S.A.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopy, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system, without advance permission in writing from the publisher. For
information contact: Chief Executive Officer, Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc., 900 Montclair Road, Birmingham,
Alabama 35213-1206.

Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 i

 PREFACE

The purpose of the Standard Swimming Pool Code is to provide for the protection of the public health, welfare and safety by
prescribing minimum standards for the design, construction or installation, repair or alterations of swimming pools, public or
private and equipment related thereto. This code requires a permit and inspection; therefore, it provides for the administration and
enforcement of the standards set forth herein.

Broken vertical bars in the margin indicate 1997 edition.

Open stars in the margin indicate deletions from the 1997 edition.

ii Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999

 METRIC CONVERSIONS

MULTIPLY BY TO GET
Length inches 25.4 mm
ft 0.3048 m

Area sq in 645.16 mm2

sq ft 0.0929 m2

Volume cu in 0.01639 L
cu ft 28.3169 L
gal 3.785 L

Mass lb 0.4536 kg

Mass/unit length plf (lb/ft) 1.4882 kg/m

Mass/unit area psf (lb/sq ft) 4.882 kg/m2

Mass density pcf (lb/cu ft) 16.02 kg/m3

Force lb 4.4482 N

Force/unit length plf (lb/ft) 14.5939 N/m

Pressure, stress psi 6.895 kPa

modulus of elasticity psf (lb/sq ft) 47.88 Pa

Second moment in4 416,231 mm4

of area

Section modulus in3 16,387.064 mm3

Temperature °F–32 5/9 °C

°F + 273.15 5/9 K

Energy, work, kWh 3.6 MJ

quantity of heat Btu 1055 J
ft • lb (force) 1.3558 J

Power ton (refrig) 3.517 kW

Btu/s 1.0543 kW
hp (electric) 745.7 W
Btu/h 0.2931 W

Thermal conductance Btu/f2 • h • °F 5.6783 W/m2 •K

(U value)

Thermal ft2 • h • °F/Btu 0.1761 m2 • K/W

resistance
(R value)

Flow gpm 0.0631 L/s

cfm 0.4719 L/s

Illuminance footcandle 10.76 lx (lux)

(lm/sq ft)

Velocity (speed) mph 0.447 m/s

Plane angle °(angle) 0.01745 rad

Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 iii

 THE STANDARD CODES
Standard Amusement Device Code
Standard Building Code
Standard Existing Buildings Code
Standard Fire Prevention Code
Standard Gas Code
Standard Housing Code
Standard Mechanical Code
Standard Plumbing Code
Standard Swimming Pool Code
Standard Unsafe Building Abatement Code

THE INTERNATIONAL CODES

International Plumbing Code
International Mechanical Code
International Private Sewage Disposal Code
International Energy Conservation Code
International Fuel Gas Code
International One-and Two-Family Dwelling Code
International Property Maintenance Code
International Zoning Code

CODE-RELATED PUBLICATIONS

Standard for Determining Impact Resistance from Windborne Debris

Standard for Proscenium Curtains
Standard for Existing High Rise Buildings
Standard for Floodplain Management
Standard for Soil Expansion
Standard for Sound Control
Test Method for Textile Wall Covering
Standard for Determining Wind Resistance of Concrete or Clay Roof Tiles
Standard for Hurricane Resistant Residential Construction
Standard Building Code Commentary
Standard Gas Code Commentary
Standard Mechanical Code Commentary
International Plumbing Code Commentary
International Mechanical Code Commentary

EDUCATION PUBLICATIONS
Building Official Management
Building Principles and Code Applications
Commercial Electrical Principles and Codes Applications
Hurricane Resistant Residential Construction Principles and Code Applications Manual
Legal Aspects of Code Administration
Mechanical Principles and Code Applications
Plumbing Principles and Code Applications
Rehabilitation and Housing Principles and Code Applications
Residential Building Principles and Code Applications
Residential Electrical Principles and Code Applications
Residential Plumbing Principles and Code Applications
Residential Mechanical Principles and Code Applications

iv Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATION

101 TITLE AND SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

102 ORGANIZATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
103 RIGHT OF ENTRY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
104 DANGEROUS CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
105 PERMITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
106 INSPECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
107 VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
108 VALIDITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS
201 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
202 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

CHAPTER 3 MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS

301 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
302 APPROVALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
303 ALTERNATE MATERIALS AND
METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
304 ENGINEERING DESIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
305 PUMPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
306 VALVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
307 WATER SUPPLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
308 WASTE WATER DISPOSAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
309 SEPARATION TANK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
310 TESTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
311 DRAIN PIPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
312 WATER HEATING EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
313 GAS PIPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
314 ELECTRICAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
315 ENCLOSURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
316 LADDERS AND STEPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
317 FINAL INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

CHAPTER 4 PRIVATE POOLS

401 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
402 SAND FILTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
403 DIATOMITE TYPE FILTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
404 POOL FITTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
405 EQUIPMENT FOUNDATIONS AND ENCLOSURES . . . . . . .11
406 ACCESSIBILITY AND CLEARANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

CHAPTER 5 PUBLIC POOLS

501 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
502 INLETS AND OUTLETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
503 POOL SKIMMERS AND OVERFLOW GUTTERS . . . . . . . . .13
504 CIRCULATION AND PURIFICATION SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . .13
505 RAPID SAND PRESSURE FILTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
506 DIATOMACEOUS EARTH FILTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
507 OTHER FILTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
508 WADING POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 v

vi Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999
 CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION
101 TITLE AND SCOPE 3. Enforce the provisions of this code and inspect all
swimming pool work authorized by permit to assure
101.1 Title
compliance with provisions of this code or amendments
The provisions embraced within the following chapters and
thereto.
sections shall constitute and be known and may be cited as the
4. Issue upon request a Certificate of Approval for any
“Standard Swimming Pool Code” hereinafter referred to as
work approved.
“this code.”
5. Reject all work done or materials used or being used
which do not comply with the provisions of this code
101.2 Scope
and amendments thereto.
101.2.1 The provisions of this code apply to the protection of
the public health, safety and welfare by prescribing 6. Order changes in workmanship or materials or both
minimum standards for the design, construction or essential to obtain compliance with all provisions of this
installation, repair or alterations of swimming pools, public code.
or private, and equipment related thereto; requiring a permit 7. Investigate any construction or work regulated by this
and inspection therefor; providing the administration and
code and issue such notices and orders as provided in
enforcement of the standards set forth herein.
104 and 105.2.
8. Keep a record of all business of the department. The
101.2.2 The provisions of this code shall not be held to
records of the department shall be open to public
deprive any Federal or state agency, or any applicable
inspection.
governing body having jurisdiction, of any power or
9. Transfer all fees collected by him to the proper authority
authority which it had on the effective date of this act or of
provided by law to receive such funds.
any remedy then existing for the enforcement of its orders,
nor shall it deprive any individual or corporation of its legal
103 RIGHT OF ENTRY
rights as provided by law.
The administrative authority shall have the right of entry,
102 ORGANIZATION during business hours, to inspect any and all swimming pools
or portion thereof in the performance of his duties.
102.1 Administrative Authority
Whenever the term “Administrative Authority” is used in this
104 DANGEROUS CONSTRUCTION
code it shall be construed to mean the building official or his
authorized representative. 104.1 Issuance Of Order
Whenever upon investigation any construction or work
102.2 Department Having Jurisdiction regulated by this code is deemed hazardous, dangerous,
Unless otherwise provided for by law, the office of the unsafe or a menace to life, health or property or otherwise in
administrative authority shall be part of the building violation of this code, the administrative authority shall order
department. any person, firm or corporation, using or maintaining such
condition or responsible use or maintenance thereof to
102.3 Duties Of The Administrative Authority discontinue the use of or maintenance thereof or to repair,
The administrative authority shall maintain public office hours alter, or change same as may be necessary for the protection
necessary to efficiently administer the provisions of this code of life, health or property. Such order shall be in writing to the
and amendments thereto and shall perform the following owner, agent or person responsible for the premises on which
duties: such condition exists and shall specify a reasonable date or
1. Require submission of, examine and check plans, time when such order shall be complied with.
specifications, drawings, descriptions, or diagrams
where necessary to show clearly the character, kind and 104.2 Compliance With Order
extent of swimming pool work covered by applications Refusal, failure or neglect to comply with the notice or order
for a permit and upon approval thereof shall issue the specified in 104.1 shall be considered a violation of this code.
permit applied therefor.
2. Collect all fees for permits issued as provided by this
code.
Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 1
 105 PERMITS 105.3.2 When required by the building official, two or more
copies of specifications, and of drawings drawn to scale with
105.1 Permit Required
sufficient clarity and detail to indicate the nature and character
105.1.1 No swimming pool installation, alteration or repair
of the work, shall accompany every application. Such
work shall be commenced until a permit shall first have
drawings and specifications shall contain information, in the
been obtained from the administrative authority.
form of notes or otherwise, as to the quality of materials,
where quality is essential to conformity with this code. Such
105.1.2 The administrative authority shall act upon an
information shall be specific, and this code shall not be cited
application for a permit with plans as filed, or as amended,
as a whole or in part, nor shall the term “legal’’ or its
without unreasonable or unnecessary delay. A permit
equivalent be used, as a substitute for specific information.
issued shall be construed to be a license to proceed with the
Such information shall include these items in 105.3.3, 105.3.4,
work and shall not be construed as authority to violate,
and 105.3.5.
cancel, alter, or set aside any of the provisions of this code,
nor shall such issuance of a permit prevent the building 105.3.3 Plot plans with site grades, dimensioned, and drawn to
official from thereafter requiring a correction of errors in a scale of not less than 1/8 in/ft and showing at least the
plans or in construction, or of violations of this code. following:
1. Property lines, easements, right-of-way of record and
overhead utilities adjacent to pool area or over the
105.1.3 Any permit issued shall become invalid unless the
property.
work authorized by it shall have been commenced within 2. Existing structures, fencing, retaining walls, and other
60 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such relevant characteristics adjacent to pool area.
permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 60 days 3. Proposed pool shape, dimensioned and located to show
after the time the work is commenced; provided that, for setbacks, side yards, and clearance from existing
cause, one or more extensions of time, for periods not structures adjacent to pool area.
exceeding 60 days each, may be allowed in writing by the 4. Proposed mechanical equipment pad, dimensions and
location as to set backs and side yards.
building official. (See fee schedule in 105.6.)
5. All deck equipment items, if included.
6. Proposed deckwork configuration, showing its
105.1.4 No person shall permit any other person to do or anticipated drainage.
cause or permit to be done any swimming pool work under 7. Anticipated overall drainage of the pool site.
any permit secured by such persons, except as permitted by
state law. 105.3.4 A structural plan showing at least the following:
1. Type of construction, whether gunite, poured concrete,
105.2 Authority To Stop Work prefabricated, or other.
Whenever any construction regulated by this code is being, or 2. Pool dimensions, including the depth, and adequate
has been done contrary to the requirements of this code, the cross-sections drawn to scale.
administrative authority may order all work stopped on that 3. Computations, stress diagrams, and other data sufficient
portion of the installation of which such violation has to show the correctness of the plans; including the
reinforcing steel schedule and detail.
occurred. Every such order shall be in writing, stating the
4. A statement by the applicant concerning the anticipated
nature of the violation and fixing a time limit for compliance.
nature of the soil under and around the pool structure.
No person shall do any work on any portion of the equipment 5. Interior finish details.
regulated by this code after a stop order has been issued,
except in conformance with directions of the administrative 105.3.5 A mechanical plan showing at least the following:
authority. 1. Volume, system flow rate in gallons per minute, and
turnover in hours.
105.3 Application For Permit 2. Type and size of filtration systems and means of waste
105.3.1 Any person who desires a permit to install, alter or disposal.
repair a swimming pool shall make application on forms 3. Type and size of pool heater, if included, including the
provided for that purpose. He shall describe the work to be method of venting and provisions for combustion air.
done and the location, ownership, occupancy and use of the
premises in connection therewith. The administrative
authority may require plans, specifications or drawings and
such other information as he may deem necessary and as
prescribed in 105.1.

2 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999

 4. Pool piping layout with all sizes shown and types of 105.6 Schedule Of Fees
material to be used, and showing the location of the
main outlet, surface skimmers, and inlets. For each swimming pool:
5. Rated capacity of the pool pump in gpm at the design Public pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$40.00
head with the size and type of motor indicated and Private pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25.00
identified as self-priming or straight centrifugal.
Pool filling system, including back-flow
6. Means of adding makeup water.
prevention, each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.50
7. Size, length from source to heater and routing of the gas
line. Each water heater and/or vent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.50
Gas piping system, each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.50
105.3.6 All plans submitted shall be on substantial paper Replacing of filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.00
and shall show the name and address of the person under Replacing of piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.00
whose supervision the plans were prepared. Miscellaneous replacements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.00
Backwash receptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.50
105.4 Issuance Of Permit
105.4.1 If the administrative authority determines that the 106 INSPECTIONS
plans, specifications, drawings, descriptions, or
information furnished by the applicant is in compliance 106.1 Inspection Required
with this code, he shall issue the permit upon payment of All swimming pool installations or alterations including
the required fee. Permits shall be obtained for all of the equipment, piping and appliances shall be subject to
electrical, plumbing, related utility connections and heating inspection by the administrative authority to insure
work prior to issuance of the building permit for the pool compliance with all the requirements of this code.
structure.
106.2 Notification
105.4.2 Requirements in 105.3 shall not void any It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by
requirements by any other department having jurisdiction. the permit, to notify the administrative authority, that said
work is ready for inspection. The administrative authority
105.5 Cost Of Permit shall have 48 hours in which to make such inspection.
105.5.1 Every applicant for a permit to install, alter or
repair a swimming pool system or part thereof, shall state 107 VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
in writing on a form furnished for that purpose, the
Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the
character of work proposed, together with such other
provisions of this code shall be deemed guilty of a
information as may be required.
misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable
within the limits and as provided by state laws.
105.5.2 Every applicant shall pay for each permit at the
time of making application a fee in accordance with 105.6
108 VALIDITY
and at the rate provided for each classification shown
therein. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this
ordinance is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such
105.5.3 Any person who shall commence any swimming decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions
pool work for which a permit is required by this code of this code.
without having first obtained a permit therefor shall pay
double the permit fee fixed by the section for such work,
provided, however, that this provision shall not apply to
emergency work required by the administrative authority
for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare.
In all such cases a permit shall be obtained as soon as it is
practical to do so.

Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 3

4 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999
 CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
201 GENERAL CHEMICAL PIPING—piping which conveys concentrated
chemical solutions from a feeding apparatus to the circulation
201.1 Tense, Gender And Number
piping.
For the purpose of this code, certain abbreviations, terms,
phrases, words, and their derivatives, shall be construed as set CIRCULATION PIPING SYSTEM—piping between the pool
forth in this section. Words used in the present tense include structure and the mechanical equipment. Usually includes
the future. Words in the masculine gender include the suction piping, face piping and return piping.
feminine and neuter. Words in the feminine and neuter gender
include the masculine. The singular number includes the COMBINATION VALVE—a multipart valve intended to
plural and the plural number includes the singular. perform more than one function.

201.2 Words Not Defined DESIGN HEAD—total head requirement of the circulation
Words not defined herein shall have the meanings stated in system at the design rate of flow.
the Standard Building Code, Standard Mechanical Code,
DIATOMITE (DIATOMACEOUS EARTH)—a type of filter
Standard Plumbing Code, Standard Gas Code or Standard Fire
aid.
Prevention Code. Words not defined in the Standard Codes
shall have the meanings stated in the Webster’s Ninth New DIATOMITE TYPE FILTER—a filter designed to be used
Collegiate Dictionary, as revised. with filter aid.

202 DEFINITIONS FACE PIPING—piping, with all valves and fittings, which is
used to connect the filter system together as a unit.
ABOVEGROUND/ONGROUND POOL—see Swimming
Pool. FILTER—any apparatus by which water is clarified.

ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY—the individual official, FILTER AID—a non-permanent type of filter media or aid
board, department, or agency established and authorized by a such as diatomite, alum, etc.
state, county, city or other political subdivision created by law
to administer and enforce the provisions of the swimming FILTER CARTRIDGE—a disposable or renewable filter
pool code as adopted or amended. element which generally employs no filter aid.

APPROVED—accepted or acceptable under an applicable FILTER ELEMENT—that part of a filter which retains the
specification stated or cited in this code, or accepted as filter media.
suitable for the proposed use under procedures and power of
FILTER MEDIA—fine material which entraps the suspended
the administrative authority.
particles and removes them from the water.
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY—an organization
FILTER RATE—average rate of flow per square foot of filter
primarily established for the purpose of testing to approved
area.
standards and approved by the administrative authority.
FILTER ROCK—specially graded rock and gravel used to
BACKWASH PIPING—see Filter Waste Discharge Piping.
support filter sand.
BARRIER—a fence, wall, building wall or a combination
FILTER SAND—a specially graded type of permanent filter
thereof which completely surrounds the swimming pool and
media.
obstructs access to the swimming pool.
FILTER SEPTUM—that part of the filter element in a
BODY FEED—filter aid fed into a diatomite-type filter diatomite type filter upon which a cake of diatomite or other
throughout the filtering cycle. non-permanent filter aid may be deposited.

CARTRIDGE FILTER—a filter using cartridge type filter FILTER WASTE DISCHARGE PIPING—piping that
elements. conducts waste water from a filter to a drainage system.
Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 5
Connection to drainage system is made through an air gap or SKIM FILTER—a surface skimmer combined with a vacuum
other approved methods. diatomite filter.

FRESH WATER—those waters having a specific SPA, NONPORTABLE—see Swimming Pool.

conductivity less than a solution containing 6000 ppm of
sodium chloride. SPA, PORTABLE—non-permanent structure intended for
recreational bathing, in which all controls, water heating, and
HIGH RATE SAND FILTER—a sand filter designed for water circulating equipment are an integral part of the product
flows in excess of 5 gpm per sq ft. and which is cord-connected (not permanently electrically
wired).
HOT TUB—see Swimming Pool.
SUCTION PIPING—that portion of the circulation piping
INGROUND POOL—see Swimming Pool. located between the pool structure and the inlet side of the
pump and usually includes main outlet piping, skimmer
INLET FITTING—fitting or fixture through which circulated piping, vacuum piping and surge tank piping.
water enters the pool.
SURFACE SKIMMER—a device generally located in the
MAIN OUTLET—outlet at the deep portion of the pool pool wall which skims the pool surface by drawing pool water
through which the main flow of water leaves the pool when over a self adjusting weir.
being drained or circulated.
SWIMMING POOL—any structure intended for swimming
POOL—see Swimming Pool. or recreational bathing that contains water over 24 inches
deep. This includes inground, aboveground, and onground
POOL DEPTHS—the distance between the floor of pool and swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.
the maximum operating water level.
SWIMMING POOL, INDOOR—a swimming pool which is
POOL PLUMBING—all chemical, circulation, filter waste totally contained within a structure and surrounded on all four
discharge piping, deck drainage and water filling system. sides by walls of said structure.

PORTABLE POOL—a prefabricated pool which may be SWIMMING POOL, OUTDOOR—any swimming pool
erected at the point of intended use and which may be which is not an indoor pool.
subsequently disassembled and re-erected at a new location.
Generally installed on the surface of the ground and without SWIMMING POOL, PUBLIC—any constructed or
excavation. prefabricated pool used as other than a residential swimming
pool.
PRECOAT—in a diatomite-type filter, the initial coating or
filter aid placed on the filter septum at the start of the filter SWIMMING POOL, RESIDENTIAL—that which is intended
cycle. for noncommercial use.

RAPID SAND FILTER—a filter designed to be used with TURNOVER TIME—the time in hours required for the
sand as the filter media and for flows not to exceed 5 gpm per circulation system to filter and recirculate a volume of water
sq ft. equal to the pool volume.

RECEPTOR—an approved plumbing fixture or device of VACUUM FITTING—a fitting in the pool which is used as a
such material, shape and capacity as to adequately receive the convenient outlet for connecting the underwater suction
discharge from indirect waste piping, so constructed and cleaning equipment.
located as to be readily cleaned.
VACUUM PIPING—the piping from the suction side of a
pump connected to a vacuum fitting located at the pool and
RETURN PIPING—that portion of the circulation piping
below the water level.
which extends from the outlet side of the filters to the pool.

SALINE WATER—those waters having a specific WADING POOL—any constructed or prefabricated pool 18
conductivity in excess of a solution containing 6000 ppm of inches or less in depth.
sodium chloride. WASTE PIPING—see Filter Waste Discharge Piping.

SEPARATION TANK—a device used to clarify filter rinse or WIDTH AND/OR LENGTH—actual water dimension taken
waste water. Sometimes called a reclamation tank. from wall to wall at the maximum operating water level.
6 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999
 CHAPTER 3
MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS
301 GENERAL 304 ENGINEERING DESIGN

Unless otherwise specified in this code, all piping, equipment 304.1 Conformance Standard
and materials used in the plumbing system of swimming pools Design, construction and workmanship shall be in conformity
that are built in place shall conform to the Standard Plumbing with ANSI/NSPI-1 1991, Standard for Public Swimming Pools,
Code. ANSI/NSPI-4 1992, Standard for Aboveground/Onground
Residential Swimming Pools and NSPI-5, Standard for
302 APPROVALS Residential Swimming Pools, published by the National Spa
and Pool Institute, or other accepted engineering practices.
302.1 Compliance
All materials, piping, valves, equipment or appliances
304.2 Required Equipment
entering into the construction of swimming pools or portions
Every swimming pool shall be equipped complete with
thereof shall be of a type complying with this code or of a
approved mechanical equipment consisting of filter, pump,
type recommended and approved by a nationally recognized
piping valves and component parts.
testing agency or conforming to other recognized standards
acceptable to the administrative authority.
Exception: Pools with a supply of fresh water
equivalent to the volume of the pool in the specified
302.2 Items Not Covered
turnover time will be allowed.
For any items not specifically covered in these requirements,
the administrative authority is hereby authorized to require
304.3 Water Velocity
that all equipment, materials, methods of construction and
Pool piping shall be designed so the water velocity will not
design features shall be proven to function adequately,
exceed 10 ft/s, except that the water velocity shall not exceed
effectively and without excessive maintenance and
8 ft/s in copper tubing.
operational difficulties.
Exception: Jet inlet fittings shall not be deemed
302.3 Applicant Responsibility
subject to this requirement.
It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to provide such
data, tests, or other adequate proof that the device, material or
304.4 Piping To Heater
product will satisfactorily perform the function for which it is
Water flow through the heater, any bypass plumbing installed,
intended, before such item shall be approved or accepted for
any back-siphoning protection, and the use of heat sinks shall
tests.
be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
303 ALTERNATE MATERIALS AND METHODS
OF CONSTRUCTION 304.5 Piping Installation
303.1 Approval And Authorization All piping materials shall be installed in strict accordance with
The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use the manufacturer’s installation standards.
of any alternate material, method of construction, appliance or
305 PUMPS
equipment provided any such alternate has been first approved
and its use authorized by the administrative authority. 305.1 Strainer
Pool circulating pumps shall be equipped on the inlet side
303.2 Required Tests with an approved type hair and lint strainer when used with a
When there is insufficient evidence to substantiate claims for pressure filter.
alternates, the administrative authority may require tests, as
proof of compliance, to be made by an approved agency at the 305.2 Mounting
expense of the applicant. Pumps shall be mounted on a substantial base in a manner that
will eliminate strain on piping.

Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 7

305.3 Capacity 308.2 Disposal Through Public Sewer
Pumps shall have design capacity at the following heads. When the waste water from a swimming pool is to be
l. Pressure Diatomaceous Earth—At least 60 ft. disposed of through a public sewer, a 3-inch P-trap shall be
2. Vacuum Diatomaceous Earth—20 inch vacuum on installed on the lower terminus of the building drain and the
the suction side and 40 ft total head. tall piece from the trap shall extend a minimum of 3 inches
3. Rapid Sand—At least 45 ft. above finished grade and below finished floor grade. This trap
4. High Rate Sand—At least 60 ft. need not be vented. The connection between the filter waste
discharge piping and the P-trap shall be made by means of an
305.4 Materials indirect connection.
Pump impellers, shafts, wear rings and other working parts
shall be of corrosion-resistant materials. 308.3 Deviations
Plans and specifications for any deviation from the above
306 VALVES manner of installation shall first be approved by the
administrative authority before any portion of any such
306.1 General
system is installed. When waste water disposal is to seepage
Valves shall be made of materials that are approved in the
pit installation, it shall be installed in accordance with the
Standard Plumbing Code. Valves located under concrete slabs
approval granted by the administrative authority.
shall be set in a pit having a least dimension of five pipe
diameters with a minimum of at least 10 inches and fitted with
309 SEPARATION TANK
a suitable cover. All valves shall be located where they will be
readily accessible for maintenance and removal. A separation tank of an approved type may be used in lieu of
the aforementioned means of waste water disposal when
306.2 Full-Way (Gate) Valves connected as a reclamation system.
Full-way valves shall be installed to insure proper functioning
of the filtration and piping system. When the pump is located 310 TESTS
below the overflow rim of the pool, a valve shall be installed
310.1 Pressure Test
on the discharge outlet and the suction line.
All pool piping shall be inspected and approved before being
covered or concealed. It shall be tested and proved tight to the
306.3 Check Valves
satisfaction of the administrative authority, under a static
Where check valves are installed they shall be of the swing or
water or air pressure test of not less than 35 psi for 15
vertical check patterns.
minutes.
306.4 Combination Valves
Exception: Circulating pumps need not be tested as
Combination valves shall require approval of the
required in this section.
administration authority prior to their installation.

310.2 Drain And Waste Piping

307 WATER SUPPLY
All drain and waste piping shall be tested by filling with water
Unless an approved type of filling system is installed, any to the point of overflow and all joints shall be tight.
water supply which in the judgment of the administrative
authority may be used to fill the pool, shall be equipped with 311 DRAIN PIPING
backflow protection. No over the rim fill spout shall be
311.1 Slope To Discharge
accepted unless located under a diving board, or properly
Drain piping serving gravity overflow gutter drains and deck
guarded.
drains shall be installed to provide continuous grade to point
of discharge.
308 WASTE WATER DISPOSAL

308.1 Connection Limitations 311.2 Joints And Connections

Direct or indirect connections shall not be made between any Joints and connections shall be made as required by the
storm drain, sewer, drainage system, seepage pit, underground Standard Plumbing Code.
leaching pit, or sub-soil drainage line, and any line connected
to a swimming pool unless approved by the administrative
authority.

8 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999

 312 WATER HEATING EQUIPMENT Exception: A swimming pool with a power safety
cover, or a spa with a safety cover complying with
312.1 Labels
ASTM F 1346-91.
Swimming pool water heating equipment shall conform to the
design, construction and installation requirements in
315.2.1 Outdoor Swimming Pools. Outdoor swimming pools
accordance with accepted engineering practices and shall bear
shall be provided with a barrier complying with 315.2.1.1
the label of a recognized testing agency, and shall include a
through 315.2.1.10.
consideration of combustion air, venting and gas supply
requirements for water heaters.
315.2.1.1 The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches
above grade measured on the side of the barrier which
312.2 Water Retention
faces away from the swimming pool. The maximum
If heater is not equipped or designed for an approved
vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the
permanent by-pass or anti-siphon device, an approved
barrier shall be 2 inches measured on the side of the barrier
permanent by-pass or anti-siphon device shall be installed to
which faces away from the swimming pool. Where the top
provide a positive means of retaining water in the heater when
of the pool structure is above grade the barrier may be at
the pump is not in operation.
ground level or mounted on top of the pool structure.
Where the barrier is mounted on top of the pool structure,
312.3 Pit Drainage
the maximum vertical clearance between the top of the
When the heater is installed in a pit, the pit shall be provided
pool structure and the bottom of the barrier shall be 4
with approved drainage facilities.
inches.

312.4 Connections
315.2.1.2 Openings in the barrier shall not allow passage of
All water heating equipment shall be installed with flanges or
a 4-inch diameter sphere.
union connection adjacent to the heater.
315.2.1.3 Solid barriers which do not have openings shall
312.5 Relief Valve
not contain indentations or protrusions except for normal
When water heating equipment which is installed in a closed
construction tolerances and tooled masonry joints.
system has a valve between the appliance and the pool, a
pressure relief valve shall be installed on the discharge side of
315.2.1.4 Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and
the water heating equipment. For units up to and including
vertical members and the distance between the tops of the
200,000 Btu/hour input, the relief valve shall be rated by the
horizontal members is less than 45 inches, the horizontal
American Gas Association.
members shall be located on the swimming pool side of the
fence. Spacing between vertical members shall not exceed
313 GAS PIPING 1 3/4 inches in width. Where there are decorative cutouts
Gas piping shall comply with the Standard Gas Code. within vertical members, spacing within the cutouts shall
not exceed 1 3/4 inches in width.
314 ELECTRICAL
315.2.1.5 Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and
Electrical wiring and equipment shall comply with the vertical members and the distance between the tops of the
National Electrical Code. horizontal members is 45 inches or more, spacing between
vertical members shall not exceed 4 inches. Where there
315 ENCLOSURE are decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing
within the cutouts shall not exceed 1 3/4 inches in width.
315.1 Public Swimming Pools
All public swimming pools shall be completely enclosed by a
315.2.1.6 Maximum mesh size for chain link fences shall
fence at least 4 ft in height or a screen enclosure. Openings in
be a 2 1/4 inch square.
the fence shall not permit the passage of a 4-inch diameter
sphere. The fence or screen enclosure shall be equipped with
Exception: A larger mesh size may be used if the fence
self-closing and self-latching gates.
is provided with slats fastened at the top or bottom
which restrict the openings to no more than 1 3/4 inches.
315.2 Residential Swimming Pools
Residential swimming pools shall comply with 315.2.1
315.2.1.7 Where the barrier is composed of diagonal
through 315.2.3.
members, the maximum opening formed by the diagonal
members shall be no more than 1 3/4 inches.
Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 9
 315.2.1.8 Access gates shall comply with the requirements 316 LADDERS AND STEPS
of 315.2.1.1 through 314.2.1.7 and shall be equipped to
All pools whether public or private shall be provided with a
accommodate a locking device. Pedestrian access gates
ladder or steps in the shallow end where water depth exceeds
shall open outwards away from the pool and shall be self-
24 inches.
closing and have a self-latching device. Gates other than
pedestrian access gates shall have a self-latching device.
In private pools where water depth exceeds 5 ft, there shall be
Where the release mechanism of the self-latching device is
ladders, stairs, or underwater benches/swimouts in the deep
located less than 54 inches from the bottom of the gate, the
end. Where manufactured diving equipment shall be used,
release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the
benches or swimouts shall be recessed or located in a corner.
gate at least 3 inches below the top of the gate, and the gate
In public pools, there shall be steps or ladders in the shallow
and barrier shall have no opening greater than 1/2 inch
end and ladders in the deep end. These entry/exits shall be no
within 18 inches of the release mechanism.
more than 75 ft apart.
315.2.1.9 Where a wall of a dwelling serves as part of the
barrier, one of the following shall apply: 317 FINAL INSPECTION
1. All doors with direct access to the pool through that All swimming pool installations must be completed. The pool
wall shall be equipped with an alarm which produces shall be completely filled with water and in operation before
an audible warning when the door and its screen are final inspection.
opened. The alarm shall sound continuously for a
minimum of 30 seconds immediately after the door is
opened and be capable of being heard throughout the
house during normal household activities. The alarm
shall automatically reset under all conditions. The
alarm shall be equipped with a manual means to
temporarily deactivate the alarm for a single opening.
Such deactivation shall last no more than 15 seconds.
The deactivation switch shall be located at least 54
inches above the threshold of the door.
2. Other means of protection, such as self-closing doors
with self-latching devices, or doors with positive
mechanical latching or locking devices installed a
minimum 54 inches above the threshold of the door,
which are approved by the administrative authority
shall be accepted.

315.2.1.10 Where an aboveground pool structure is used as

a barrier or where the barrier is mounted on top of the pool
structure, and the means of access is a ladder or steps, then
the ladder or steps either shall be capable of being secured,
locked or removed to prevent access, or the ladder or steps
shall be surrounded by a barrier which meets the
requirements of 315.2.1.1 through 315.2.1.9. When the
ladder or steps are secured, locked, or removed, any
opening created shall not allow the passage of a 4 inch
diameter sphere.

315.2.2 Indoor Swimming Pools. All walls surrounding

indoor swimming pools shall comply with 315.2.1.9.

315.2.3 Prohibited Locations. Barriers shall be located so as

to prohibit permanent structures, equipment or similar objects
from being used to climb the barriers.

10 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999

 CHAPTER 4
PRIVATE POOLS

401 GENERAL 404.2 Skimmers

Approved surface skimmers are required and shall be installed
The entire design of matched components shall have sufficient in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s installation
capacity to provide a complete turnover of pool water in 12 instructions. Skimmers shall be installed on the basis of one
hours or less. per 1000 sq ft of surface area, or fraction thereof and shall be
designed for a flow rate of at least 25 gpm per skimmer.
402 SAND FILTERS
404.3 Main Outlet
402.1 Approved Types An approved main outlet shall be provided at the deepest
Rapid sand filters (flow up to 5 gpm/sq ft) shall be constructed point in every pool for emptying or circulation, or both, of the
in accordance with approved standards. Where high rate sand water in the pool.
filters (flow in excess of 5 gpm/sq ft) are used, they shall be of
an approved type. The circulation system and backwash 404.4 Hydrostatic Relief Device
piping shall be adequate for proper backwashing of said filter In areas of anticipated water table an approved hydrostatic
and shall provide backwash flow rates of at least 12 gpm/sq ft relief device shall be installed.
for rapid sand filters or 15 gpm/sq ft for high rate sand filters.
Exception: Plastic liner pools (where there is no
402.2 Instructions structural bottom to the pool).
Every filter system shall be provided with written operating
instructions. 404.5 Inlet Fittings
Approved manufactured inlet fittings for the return of
402.3 Filter System Equipment recirculated pool water shall be provided on the basis of at
On pressure type filters, a means shall be provided to permit least one per 15,000 gal of pool capacity. Such inlet fittings
the release of internal pressure. A filter incorporating an shall be designed and constructed to insure an adequate seal to
automatic internal air release as its principal means of air the pool structure and shall incorporate a convenient means of
release shall have lids which provide a slow and safe release sealing for pressure testing of the pool circulation piping.
of pressure as part of its design. A separation tank used in Where more than one inlet is required, the shortest distance
conjunction with a filter tank shall have as part of its design a between any two required inlets shall be at least 10 ft.
manual means of air release or a lid which provides a slow
and safe release of pressure as it is opened. 405 EQUIPMENT FOUNDATIONS AND
ENCLOSURES
403 DIATOMITE TYPE FILTERS
All mechanical equipment shall be set on a single concrete
base or slab. All heating and electrical equipment, unless
403.1 Design
approved for outdoor installation, shall be adequately
Diatomite-type filters shall be designed for operation under
protected against the weather or installed within a building.
either pressure or vacuum. The design capacity for both
pressure and vacuum filters shall not exceed 2 gpm/sq ft of
406 ACCESSIBILITY AND CLEARANCES
effective filter area.
Equipment shall be so installed as to provide ready
403.2 Filter Aid accessibility for cleaning, operating, maintenance and
Provision shall be made to introduce filter aid into the filter in servicing.
such a way as to evenly precoat the filter septum.

404 POOL FITTINGS

404.1 Approved Type

Pool fittings shall be of an approved type and design as to be
appropriate for the specific application.
Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 11
12 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999
 CHAPTER 5
PUBLIC POOLS

501 GENERAL 503.3.2 Where skimmers are used in lieu of overflow

gutters the circulation system shall be designed to produce
Before commencing the installation of any public or semi-
sufficient velocity by properly arranged and directed inlets
public swimming pool piping, appurtenance, device or
to promote a substantial circulation of the water for
equipment, plans in triplicate with specifications and other
skimming.
required pertinent data shall be submitted to the administrative
authority, for review and written approval prior to the
504 CIRCULATION AND PURIFICATION SYSTEM
issuance of a plumbing permit.
504.1 Design
502 INLETS AND OUTLETS Pumps, filters, chemical feeders and all pipe, connections,
fittings and appurtenances thereto shall be of a size or
Facilities for introducing and removing water from the pool
capacity to enable circulating, filtering and disinfecting the
shall be provided and arranged to facilitate a uniform
entire contents of the pool in not more than 8 hours. The
circulation of the water. Every pool shall be provided with an
system shall be designed for continuous circulation, filtration
approved outlet for draining the pool. All inlets and outlets
and disinfection of the water.
shall be provided with strainers or grates attached to the
strainer body by screws or bolts. The strainer or grate
504.2 Accessibility
openings shall not exceed 1/2 inch in one direction. Strainers
All valves, pumps, strainers and equipment requiring
and grates shall have openings of such size as to be equal to
adjustments shall be readily accessible.
the cross sectional area of the pipe to which they are attached.
504.3 Valve Identification
503 POOL SKIMMERS AND OVERFLOW GUTTERS
All valves shall be identified by appropriate and durable
503.1 Design markings on or near such valves.
Every pool shall be provided with approved overflow gutters
or skimmers and the design and appurtenances thereto shall be 504.4 Pressure Gages
capable of continuously withdrawing at least 50% of the Pressure gages, easily read and reasonably accurate, shall be
required circulating capacity to provide continuous skimming provided on filter influent and effluent lines.
of the water surface.
504.5 Rate-Of-Flow Indicators
503.2 Overflow Gutters The circulation system shall be provided with an accurate
503.2.1 Where pools have overflow gutters, a surge tank rate-of-flow indicator.
shall be provided which will effectively maintain the pool
water level so as to produce continuous surface skimming. 504.6 Traps
Hair and lint traps shall be readily removable and easily
503.2.2 Gutter drain piping system shall be designed to cleaned. Such traps shall be so designed to prevent the bypass
provide adequate drainage and facilitate sanitary of material during normal operation and so that material will
maintenance and to carry the overflow water to the surge not drop into the strainer pot when removed for cleaning.
tank. The minimum diameter of gutter drainage piping Traps shall be of a corrosion resistant material such as
shall be 2 in. stainless steel, brass or plastic and shall have an open area
equal to 10 times the area of the suction inlet to the pump.
503.2.3 All inlets to gutter drainage piping shall be
Holes or slots shall have a maximum area equal to 1/8-inch
provided with corrosion resistant strainer or grates. The
diameter.
openings for each strainer or grate shall be at least 1 1/2
times the cross sectional area of the outlet pipe.
504.7 Filter Backwash
503.3 Skimmers Provision shall be made for the required water flow and
503.3.1 On pools with a surface area of not over 4000 sq ft pressure to adequately backwash the filters, when of a type for
approved skimmers may be used as the required overflow which such flow is required.
devices.
Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999 13
 505 RAPID SAND PRESSURE FILTERS

505.1 Filter Design

The filtration rate shall not exceed 3 gpm/sq ft and provision
shall be made to backwash at a rate of not less than 12 gpm/sq ft.

505.2 Pipe Valves

Filter piping shall be valved so that filters can be washed
individually and so that each filter can be isolated for repairs
while the other units are in service.

505.3 Pump Design

Pumps shall be capable of producing design flow at 45 ft head
(both filtering and to backwash).

506 DIATOMACEOUS EARTH FILTERS

506.1 Filter Design

Filters shall be designed on the basis of not more than 2 gpm/sq
ft, with maximum rates of 2 1/2 gpm for filters designed for
continuous feeding of filter aid.

506.2 Filter Aid

Provision shall be made for precoating with diatomaceous earth
filter aid. At municipal, community, public school, athletic or
swimming club pools with a surface area of 2000 sq ft or more,
equipment shall be provided for the continuous feeding of filter
aid to the filter influent, and such equipment shall have a
capacity to feed not less than 0.1 lb of this material per square
foot of filter area over a 24 hour period.

506.3 Pump Design

For pressure-type units, the pump shall produce not less than
65% of the required flow at maximum anticipated head loss
and shall be capable of delivering full required capacity at 60
ft head loss and 60% or more of such capacity at 70 ft head
loss.

507 OTHER FILTERS

Other filters may be permitted when performance has been

proven as a result of full scale operation of similar units under
normal conditions of use or for observation and testing of
such other filters.

508 WADING POOL

A circulating system with a minimum 2 hour turnover rate

shall be provided for each wading pool.

14 Standard Swimming Pool Code© 1999