Do you need a permit for a pool or hot tub in Arlington County, VA?
It depends on the details of your project.
In-ground pools count toward lot coverage. Above-ground pools and hot tubs don't.
Pool equipment must stay 8 ft from side lot lines and 10 ft from the rear line unless it is screened.
Pool lighting must be hooded so no direct light leaves the property.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Arlington County before you build.
Check your exact lot
Your zoning district sets the setbacks, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a pool or hot tub can need in Arlington County
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building permit | Virginia's building code exempts only pools with 150 sq ft or less of surface that are under 24 in deep (USBC 108.2 item 8). |
| Electrical permit (pump, heater, lights, bonding) | Pool and spa wiring and bonding need an electrical permit.Medium confidence |
| Floodplain development permit | In a FEMA special flood hazard area all development needs a permit. |
| RPA review (Chesapeake Bay) | In an RPA, new or replaced fences and retaining walls, new paving, decks, sheds, pergolas and tree removal need county RPA review. New pools, patios and detached garages that add impervious cover need an exception from the Chesapeake Bay Ordinance Review Committee. |
| Certificate of Appropriateness (HALRB) | In a local historic district, exterior changes need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historical Affairs and Landmark Review Board. |
Limits that apply citywide
| Lot coverage | In-ground pools count toward lot coverage; above-ground pools and hot tubs don't |
|---|---|
| Pool equipment | 8 ft from side lot lines and 10 ft from the rear lot line, unless screened by a fence or plantings |
| Lighting | Hooded so all direct light stays on the property |
| Location | A pool is an accessory structure and follows the accessory setback rules for your districtMedium confidence |
Local details
- The barrier around a pool needs its own building permit in Virginia, because pool-barrier fences are excluded from the fence exemption.
- Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
- HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.
How to apply
Common questions
- When does a pool or hot tub need a building permit in Arlington County?
- Virginia's building code exempts only pools with 150 sq ft or less of surface that are under 24 in deep (USBC 108.2 item 8). Pools of 150 sq ft or less and under 24 in deep are exempt anywhere in Virginia.
- Where do I apply for a pool or hot tub permit in Arlington County?
- Apply through Arlington Permits portal, or call 703-228-3800.
Sources
- 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…
- 44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
- 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...
- 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 …
- Arlington County, Certificate of Appropriateness. Checked 2026-10-23
A certificate of appropriateness (CoA) is required for all proposed exterior alterations, new construction and demolition within a local historic district, with the exception of routine maintenance, repairs and replacements using the same materials, interio…
- Arlington County Zoning Ordinance § 3.2.6.A.2(c), accessory buildings in R districts. Checked 2026-10-20
No accessory buildings of two or more stories, or taller than 25 feet shall occupy any part of a required rear yard nor shall any wall of such accessory building be located closer than 10 feet to any lot line... for new construction of accessory buildings w…