What to know aboutLocal pool permits

When a permit is required

If you are planning a new pool, adding a spa or making changes to an existing pool, one of the first questions is whether the work needs a building permit. Requirements depend on the work and the local city or county authority, so it is worth discussing the project before construction begins. Plans and engineering documents are part of the permitting process for new pool construction.

Nevada also sets licensing requirements for contractors working on pools and spas. Under NRS 624.920, residential pool and spa work performed for a fee requires a Nevada contractor’s license. NAC 624.150 identifies classification A-10e for pool and spa maintenance and repair, including pumps, filters, heaters, timers, controls and lights. Homeowners should check that the contractor’s license classification matches the work being undertaken.

Surface area limits on new permits

Local water rules also affect the design that can be permitted. The Las Vegas Valley Water District Service Rules limit new single-family pools, spas and water features permitted after September 1, 2022, to 600 square feet of combined surface area. The pool, spa and applicable water features need to be considered together when the design is prepared.

There is a separate restriction on outdoor ornamental water features over 10 square feet. These are not allowed when permitted since October 4, 2022. It is useful to discuss decorative features at the same time as the pool dimensions, rather than adding them after the main layout has been developed. This helps keep the plans focused on the requirements that apply to the proposed project.

Safety codes for permitted pools

Pool planning also involves safety requirements. Southern Nevada pool barriers follow the regional standard, which calls for gates to be self-closing and self-latching. For public pools and spas, the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act requires anti-entrapment drain covers.

Equipment requirements are another part of planning. The US Department of Energy states that new pool filter pumps installed since July 19, 2021, must meet federal efficiency standards. In practice, this means variable-speed pumps for most residential pools. Equipment choices should be discussed as part of the overall project, alongside the plans, permits and applicable safety requirements.

How Kingfisher Pool & Spa helps with permits

We offer small to medium custom pools and renovations in the Las Vegas valley. Our new pool process includes consultation, design, engineering, permits through the city or county, construction, inspections, startup and handoff. We handle the permit process through the relevant local authority.

Construction and renovation consultations are free. Before the work begins, we provide a written proposal for the project. Financing is available for new pools and renovations, subject to credit approval through a third-party lender. We hold Nevada contractor license 0000000, classifications A-10 and A-10e, and carries insurance.

Kingfisher installs Pentair, Hayward and Jandy equipment. New equipment we install comes with a one-year warranty on installation labor, plus the manufacturer’s parts warranty. We register equipment we install. For resurfacing and tile work, the workmanship warranty is two years. If you are planning a project, ask about permits, equipment and finish options together so those decisions can be addressed within the written proposal.