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City of Dallas Pool Permit Guide
City of Dallas Pool Permit Guide

Francis Thumpasery
Last updated:
May 16, 2025
As of Q1 2025, Dallas leads the state of Texas as #1 for new swimming pool construction — there were 200 swimming pool permits pulled in February 2025, with an average construction value of $68,937. In other words: There’s tons of potential for pool builders in Dallas!
Unfortunately, navigating pool permitting in Dallas can quickly become a headache for builders and contractors unfamiliar with local requirements.
This guide simplifies each step by clearly outlining the necessary forms, safety regulations, and required documentation. With the right information at hand, you can minimize delays and keep your project moving quickly from start to finish.
Pull pool permits in Dallas faster with PermitFlow. Learn more.
Do you need a permit to build a pool in Dallas?
Yes, the City of Dallas mandates permits for most swimming pool installations.
According to the city, a permit is required for:
- In-ground pools
- Above-ground pools exceeding 24 inches in depth
- Pools with a capacity over 5,000 gallons
- Pools involving electrical or plumbing work
Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines and mandatory removal of the unpermitted pool.
Dallas pool building regulations
In Dallas, pool safety regulations are strictly enforced. You’ll have to adhere closely to these guidelines to ensure compliance.
Fencing requirements
Pools in Dallas must be fully enclosed by fencing at least 4 feet high. Fences need to be constructed in a way that prevents children from gaining unsupervised access. Additionally, fences must feature self-closing and self-latching gates.
Pool depth markers
For pools deeper than 5 feet, visible and clearly marked depth indicators are required. These markers must be easy to read from within the pool itself.
City of Dallas pool permit fees
The Dallas Building Inspection Division’s fee schedule available online doesn’t highlight specific pool permitting costs, but does list other relevant fees you’ll likely have to pay:
Fee type |
Amount |
Master permit |
$100.00 minimum |
Site plan review |
Greater of $50 or $0.004 per sq. ft. of pool/paved area |
Plan review |
Greater of $150 or $0.012 per sq. ft. of pool area |
Infrastructure inspection |
Minimum $600 (depending on valuation — likely applicable if digging affects utilities) |
Trade permits |
- Electrical Permit: likely required for lighting, pumps
- Plumbing Permit: for water lines, drains, etc.
- Each trade permit adds $100 to $125 based on type
|
How long do pool permits last in Dallas?
In Dallas, building permits are valid for 180 days from the date of issuance. If construction has not begun within this timeframe, the permit will expire.
If your permit expires but you haven't finished yet, you can request a one-time extension of an additional 180 days — just submit a written request before the original permit expires.
City of Dallas pool permit application process
Planning to install a pool in Dallas, TX? The permit application process — like many municipal procedures — can be long and tedious. Below are the essential steps you'll need to follow to secure your pool permit.
Step 1: Prepare required documents
First, you’ll need to prepare the necessary documents. For the City of Dallas pool permit application, you need:
- Completed application
- Two copies of a site plan, including:
- Property lines
- Pool location and dimensions
- Setbacks from property lines
- Location of pool equipment
- Fencing and barrier details
- Easements and utility lines
- Description of alarm systems or self-closing, self-latching gates
Step 2: Submit the application
Submit the completed application and supporting documents online or in person.
If you want to submit online, you’ll need to set up an online account with the city’s Department of Development Services. Once you’re logged in, follow the prompts to submit your application.
If you prefer to apply in person, visit the City of Dallas Building Inspection Department:
- 320 E. Jefferson Blvd. Dallas, TX 75203
- (214) 948-4480
Note: As of May 2025, the City of Dallas has transitioned from its old platform to a new one, called DallasNow.
Step 3: Pay permit fees
Pay all associated permit fees either inline, by mail, or in person.
Step 4: Schedule inspections
After permit approval, schedule necessary inspections during various construction phases to ensure compliance with city codes. Inspections can be scheduled by calling the City's automated inspection line at (214) 670-5313.
Mail-in payments |
Walk-in payments |
City of Dallas
Special Collections Division
P.O. Box 139076
Dallas, TX 75313-9076
|
City of Dallas
City Hall, 2nd Floor
1500 Marilla St., 2DS
Dallas, TX 75201
|
City of Dallas pool permit resources
Streamline Dallas pool permitting with PermitFlow
Need a City of Dallas pool permit? Your business has more important tasks at hand to be spending hours researching permitting requirements, preparing paperwork, and chasing down municipal employees for status updates.
Instead, let PermitFlow handle permitting for you.
Builders, contractors, and construction companies trust PermitFlow because we:
- Know the rules: Our team understands exactly what Dallas requires, so we get it right the first time
- Keep everything in one spot: See all your permits in a single place
- Get permits faster: We submit everything correctly from the start, so you can begin your project sooner
Don't let permit challenges slow you down. Contact us today to see how we can help with your projects in Dallas.
As of Q1 2025, Dallas leads the state of Texas as #1 for new swimming pool construction — there were 200 swimming pool permits pulled in February 2025, with an average construction value of $68,937. In other words: There’s tons of potential for pool builders in Dallas!
Unfortunately, navigating pool permitting in Dallas can quickly become a headache for builders and contractors unfamiliar with local requirements.
This guide simplifies each step by clearly outlining the necessary forms, safety regulations, and required documentation. With the right information at hand, you can minimize delays and keep your project moving quickly from start to finish.
Pull pool permits in Dallas faster with PermitFlow. Learn more.
Do you need a permit to build a pool in Dallas?
Yes, the City of Dallas mandates permits for most swimming pool installations.
According to the city, a permit is required for:
- In-ground pools
- Above-ground pools exceeding 24 inches in depth
- Pools with a capacity over 5,000 gallons
- Pools involving electrical or plumbing work
Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines and mandatory removal of the unpermitted pool.
Dallas pool building regulations
In Dallas, pool safety regulations are strictly enforced. You’ll have to adhere closely to these guidelines to ensure compliance.
Fencing requirements
Pools in Dallas must be fully enclosed by fencing at least 4 feet high. Fences need to be constructed in a way that prevents children from gaining unsupervised access. Additionally, fences must feature self-closing and self-latching gates.
Pool depth markers
For pools deeper than 5 feet, visible and clearly marked depth indicators are required. These markers must be easy to read from within the pool itself.
City of Dallas pool permit fees
The Dallas Building Inspection Division’s fee schedule available online doesn’t highlight specific pool permitting costs, but does list other relevant fees you’ll likely have to pay:
Fee type |
Amount |
Master permit |
$100.00 minimum |
Site plan review |
Greater of $50 or $0.004 per sq. ft. of pool/paved area |
Plan review |
Greater of $150 or $0.012 per sq. ft. of pool area |
Infrastructure inspection |
Minimum $600 (depending on valuation — likely applicable if digging affects utilities) |
Trade permits |
- Electrical Permit: likely required for lighting, pumps
- Plumbing Permit: for water lines, drains, etc.
- Each trade permit adds $100 to $125 based on type
|
How long do pool permits last in Dallas?
In Dallas, building permits are valid for 180 days from the date of issuance. If construction has not begun within this timeframe, the permit will expire.
If your permit expires but you haven't finished yet, you can request a one-time extension of an additional 180 days — just submit a written request before the original permit expires.
City of Dallas pool permit application process
Planning to install a pool in Dallas, TX? The permit application process — like many municipal procedures — can be long and tedious. Below are the essential steps you'll need to follow to secure your pool permit.
Step 1: Prepare required documents
First, you’ll need to prepare the necessary documents. For the City of Dallas pool permit application, you need:
- Completed application
- Two copies of a site plan, including:
- Property lines
- Pool location and dimensions
- Setbacks from property lines
- Location of pool equipment
- Fencing and barrier details
- Easements and utility lines
- Description of alarm systems or self-closing, self-latching gates
Step 2: Submit the application
Submit the completed application and supporting documents online or in person.
If you want to submit online, you’ll need to set up an online account with the city’s Department of Development Services. Once you’re logged in, follow the prompts to submit your application.
If you prefer to apply in person, visit the City of Dallas Building Inspection Department:
- 320 E. Jefferson Blvd. Dallas, TX 75203
- (214) 948-4480
Note: As of May 2025, the City of Dallas has transitioned from its old platform to a new one, called DallasNow.
Step 3: Pay permit fees
Pay all associated permit fees either inline, by mail, or in person.
Step 4: Schedule inspections
After permit approval, schedule necessary inspections during various construction phases to ensure compliance with city codes. Inspections can be scheduled by calling the City's automated inspection line at (214) 670-5313.
Mail-in payments |
Walk-in payments |
City of Dallas
Special Collections Division
P.O. Box 139076
Dallas, TX 75313-9076
|
City of Dallas
City Hall, 2nd Floor
1500 Marilla St., 2DS
Dallas, TX 75201
|
City of Dallas pool permit resources
Streamline Dallas pool permitting with PermitFlow
Need a City of Dallas pool permit? Your business has more important tasks at hand to be spending hours researching permitting requirements, preparing paperwork, and chasing down municipal employees for status updates.
Instead, let PermitFlow handle permitting for you.
Builders, contractors, and construction companies trust PermitFlow because we:
- Know the rules: Our team understands exactly what Dallas requires, so we get it right the first time
- Keep everything in one spot: See all your permits in a single place
- Get permits faster: We submit everything correctly from the start, so you can begin your project sooner
Don't let permit challenges slow you down. Contact us today to see how we can help with your projects in Dallas.