Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $500–$1,200 Includes building, electrical, and plumbing fees; minimum building inspection fee is $280.
Fee Method Project-based
Apply Online Apply at City of San Antonio Development Services Department →

What's Required in San Antonio

  • Required for all in-ground pools and above-ground pools over 24 inches deep.
  • Safety barrier (fence) at least 4 feet tall with self-latching gates required.
  • Alarms required on all doors leading from the house to the pool area.
  • Electrical permit mandatory for pump and underwater lighting bonding.
  • Must maintain setbacks from property lines and septic systems (if applicable).
  • Engineered pool shell plans required for in-ground pools.

How to Get a Pool Permit in San Antonio

1

Step 1: Survey & Design

Obtain a property survey and engineered pool plans.

2

Step 2: BuildSA Application

Submit a pool permit application with all site and structural docs.

3

Step 3: Trade Sub-permits

Licensed electrical and plumbing trades must pull their own sub-permits.

4

Step 4: Construction Inspections

Schedule Belly/Steel, Deck/Bonding, and P-trap inspections.

5

Step 5: Final Safety Inspection

Verify fence, alarms, and self-latching gates are operational.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, any pool 24 inches or deeper requires a building and trade permit.
Total costs usually exceed $500 including all inspections and trades.
A 48-inch tall barrier with self-closing/latching gates is mandatory.