Install an in-ground pool

Last updated November 7, 2023

Want to install an in-ground or semi in-ground pool on your property? You are required to obtain a permit and you must comply with the applicable regulations. The following is an overview of the standards you must meet to ensure that your installation is compliant.

When installing an in-ground pool, you must meet certain provincial standards, to which may be added the requirements of your borough.

A new provincial regulation came into effect in 2021. It applies to pools and spas of more than 2000 liters and a depth of 60 cm or more, regardless of when they were installed.

Semi in-ground pools are subject to the same standards applicable to in-ground pools.

Please wait for authorization from your borough before you purchase and install your pool.

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Location of an in-ground pool

Your swimming pool must be located at least one metre (3 ft. 3 in.) from any private property line.

It cannot be installed in a front yard.

No tank or underground construction related to a tank may be located within an easement (servitude).

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2 m (6 ft 6 in) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:
build a platform to access the pool

  • install a fence
  • fell a tree (if the pool cannot be installed in a different location)
  • set up any other equipment required to install the pool

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You can install a swimming pool in a backyard. You must install your pool at least 1.3 m from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

If the length of the rear yard is less than 6 m, you may install your pool in a secondary front yard or a side yard.

A swimming pool may be sited where a tree is located only if the pool cannot be installed anywhere else on the lot.

Your pool cannot be installed in an area subject to a servitude (easement).

An in-ground pool cannot be installed too close to the foundations of a building. Winter freezing could cause water to infiltrate the foundation and damage it.

Any platform taller than 30 cm used to access the spa must be located at least 1.5 m from the property line.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft) and no more than 2 m (6.5 ft) high
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When a wall is part of the fencing around your pool, it must not contain any opening that allows access to the pool.

The fence gate must have a safety latch that allows it to close and lock automatically. This device must be installed on the inside of the fence, in the upper part of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more.

If you want to chop down a tree in the area where you plan to install the pool, you will need another permit. Permission will be granted only if no other space is available on the lot for the pool.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a pool in a front yard.

Avoid installing in-ground pools too close to the foundations of a building. Frozen water can infiltrate the foundation and cause major damage to the building

Check to see whether there is a no build easement on your certificate of location.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A certificate of authorization is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This certificate also authorizes you to:

  • build a platform to access the pool
  • install a fence to restrict access to the pool

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary certificates of authorization.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

Your pool must be installed at least 1 m from the main building, at least 1 m from the property limits, and at least 2 m from a door and a window.

It is prohibited to install a pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

The property must be surrounded by a fence measuring 1.8 m (6 ft) in height.

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft)
  • must be installed at least 5 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the spa.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to set up any other equipment required to install the pool.

If you wish to add, change or replace a platform, or fell a tree so that you can install your pool, please contact your borough to find out if other permits are required.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1.2 m from your property and at least 1.2 m from the main building. The pool must not be placed in a zone subject to a servitude (in French). It is prohibited to install a pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

The yard in which the pool is installed must be surrounded by a fence measuring between 1.2 m and 1.83 m in height.

Any pool with side panels lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) in height must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • measure between 1.2 m and 1.83 m in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the spa.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • install a fence
  • build a platform to access the pool

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2 m (6 ft 6 in) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the spa.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more.

  • build a platform to access the spa
  • install a fence
  • set up any other equipment or structure  required to install the pool

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, you must obtain the required permits.

It is prohibited to fell a tree in order to install an in-ground pool.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits or a fence. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

If your property is located on a street corner, please contact us to find out where you can place your pool.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft) in height
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • build a platform to access the pool
  • install a fence

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Get informed

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1.5 m from your property limits, and 1.5 m from each building. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

If your property is bordered by two streets or one street and one alley, please contact your borough to find out where to install the pool.

The pool must not occupy a total area of more than one third of the property or 60 per cent of the backyard.

It is prohibited to install a pool under an electrical power line or wire. 

If your property is located beside a body of water, in a flood-prone area, in a special intervention zone or in a zone subject to the interim control by-law, please contact the point of service in your borough.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Any part that is required for the pool to be functional must be installed at least 2 m away from the property limits, unless the property is surrounded by a fence, in which case the fence must:  

  • be opaque and not in posts
  • have a maximum height of 1.85 m
  • extend at least .3 m above the equipment

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • install a fence
  • build a platform to access the pool

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2 m (6 ft 6 in) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • build a platform to access the pool
  • set up any other equipment required to install the pool

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Only one pool per property is authorized.

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

It is prohibited to install a pool under an electrical wire or in a zone subject to a servitude (in French).

The pool must not occupy more than one third of your property.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2.15 m in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or the fence surrounding it, and more than 1.5 m from the property limits, except if the equipment is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

Any equipment used to keep swimming pools running must be located at least 1.5 metres away from the property line.

Specific standards apply to heating units. Please contact the Bureau des permis et inspections before the installation is carried out.

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. 

This permit also authorizes you to set up any other equipment required to install the pool.

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1.5 m from your property limits and from any building on your property.

It is prohibited to install a pool or any mechanical equipment in the side yard or in the setback (located in front of the building).

If your property is bordered by two streets, please contact your borough to find out where you can install the pool.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft) in height
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. his permit also authorizes you to install a fence to secure access to the pool.

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1.5 m from your property limits, at least 2 m from the main building, and at least 1 m from an accessory building.

A pool must not occupy more than 50 per cent of the backyard area.

It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

If your property is located beside a body of water, in a flood-prone area, in a special intervention zone or in a zone subject to the interim control by-law, please contact the point of service in your borough.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

However, the heat pump must be located at least 1.5m from any property line.

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more.

If you wish to add, change or replace a platform, or fell a tree so that you can install your pool, please contact your borough to find out if other permits are required.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits and at least 1.5 m from the main or accessory building.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft)
  • must measure at least 1.2 m (4 ft) in height if the yard is surrounded by a fence or 1.5 m if the yard is not surrounded by a fence
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have any protruding elements or open parts (holes) that could be used for climbing

The fence must be assembled in such a way that spherical items with a diametre of 10 cm or less cannot pass through.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or the fence surrounding it, and more than 1.5 m from the property limits, except if the equipment is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • build a platform to access the pool
  • set up any other equipment required to install the pool

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Cité-Jardin area

Authorization from borough council is required to install an in-ground pool.

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2 m (6 ft 6 in) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

Chain link fences wider than 30 mm must be slatted.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool, unless it is installed at a minimum height of 3 m or has a maximum opening of 10 cm.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

No fixed structure that can be used to climb over the wall of a pool or enclosure shall be installed within 1 m of the pool.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • build a platform to access the pool
  • set up any other equipment required to install the pool

The installation of the pool, platform and other constructions must not involve the felling of a tree.

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

If your property is located on a street corner, please contact the Direction de l’aménagement urbain et services aux entreprises.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 1.85 m in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the spa.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to install a fence to restrict access to the pool.

If you wish to add or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. 

It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from the edge of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m and 1.8 m in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the spa.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to build or change a platform to access the pool.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

The pool can be installed in a backyard or a side yard at least one metre from the property line.

A minimum of 20 per cent of the backyard must be covered with grass, trees or plants (annuals and/or perennials).

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must measure at least 1.2 m in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the spa.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Common swimming pool serving several dwellings

Pools that serve nine or more dwellings and are not co-owned must comply with the Public Buildings Safety Act and the Environment Quality Act.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to build a platform to access the pool.

If you wish to change or replace an existing platform, or if you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain the necessary permits.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2 m (6 ft 6 in) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • install a fence
  • build or change a platform to access the pool

If you must fell a tree, you are required to obtain a permit.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation

Location of an in-ground pool

You must install your pool at least 1 m (3 ft 3 in) from your property limits. It is prohibited to install a swimming pool in a front yard.

To find out what underground infrastructures are present in your work zone, please submit a location application to Info-Excavation prior to installing your pool: www.info-ex.com/piscine or 514-286-9228.

Safety fence

Any pool with a side wall lower than 1.2 m (4 ft) must be surrounded by a fence. The fence:

  • must be located at least 1 m from the side of the pool
  • must measure between 1.2 m (4 ft) and 2 m (6 ft 6 in) in height
  • must be installed at least 10 cm from the ground
  • must not have a fixing element, projection or hole that could facilitate climbing

The fence can feature bars, on the condition that they are less than 10 cm apart.

When the pool is partly surrounded by a wall (in addition to the fence), the wall must not have an opening from which to access the pool.

The fence must have an automatic self-locking safety gate. The safety latch must be installed on the inside of the fence, at the top of the gate.

Hedges or shrubs cannot be used as fencing.

Equipment around the pool

For greater safety, the equipment required to operate your pool must be installed more than 1 m from the pool side wall or from the fence, except if it is located:

  • inside the fence
  • beneath a structure restricting access to the pool
  • in a shed

The pipes and hoses connecting the accessory equipment to the pool must be flexible and must not be installed in a way that facilitates climbing the pool side panels or the fence.

Heat pumps and heating units must be located at least 1 m from any property limits.

Get a permit

A permit is required to install an in-ground pool with a depth of 60 cm (2 ft) or more. This permit also authorizes you to:

  • build a platform to access the pool
  • install a fence

If you wish to change or replace a platform, you are required to obtain the necessary permits. Please contact your borough to assess the feasibility of your project.

Continue to: Get a permit to install a swimming pool

Legislation