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Pools and hot tubs in Arlington County, VA

In-ground pools count toward lot coverage. Above-ground pools and hot tubs don't. Pool equipment stays 8 ft from side lines and 10 ft from the rear line unless screened, and pool lights must be hooded.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Arlington County before you build.

The details

  • A new pool in an RPA adds impervious cover and needs an exception from the Chesapeake Bay Ordinance Review Committee.High confidence
  • Building permit unless the pool is 150 sq ft or less and under 24 in deep. The barrier needs its own permit.High confidence

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SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.

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Common questions

How far from the lot line can a pool go, and what permits does it need in Arlington County?
In-ground pools count toward lot coverage. Above-ground pools and hot tubs don't. Pool equipment stays 8 ft from side lines and 10 ft from the rear line unless screened, and pool lights must be hooded.

Sources

  1. Arlington County, Resource Protection Area (RPA) and the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance. Checked 2026-10-21
    [RPA review is required for] new or replaced fences and retaining walls; new paved surfaces, including gravel; decks, sheds, and pergolas; removing trees 3 inches or more in diameter... [A CBORC exception is required for] increasing impervious cover in the …
  2. Virginia USBC, 13VAC5-63-80 Section 108.2, Exemptions from application for permit. Checked 2026-10-23
    2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet... 5. Fences of any height unless required for pedestrian safety as provided for by Section 3306 or used…

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.