Pool Permit in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a pool permit in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor issues a swimming pool permit through the Building Department and prices above ground pools as a flat $125 building permit line item. The fee schedule footnote makes clear that the pool permit does not cover the wiring or the water connections: separate plumbing and electrical permits are required, and the electrical schedule carries its own swimming pools, spas and hot tubs line. Pools are also treated as accessory buildings under the zoning ordinance, so accessory building setback, height and rear open space limits apply. The city publishes no size, depth or volume exemption for residential pools. Always confirm with the City of Ann Arbor Building, Rental and Inspection Services (Construction and Building), with zoning review by Planning and Development Services before starting.

How much does a pool permit cost in Ann Arbor?

Building Permit Fees (effective October 2019, revised 7/15/2025) carries a flat line item: "Above Ground Swimming Pool* ... $125" with the footnote "(*requires separate Plumbing and Electrical permits)". Electrical Permit Fees (effective January 2020) charge "Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot tubs ... $25" plus the $15 base application fee, with $35 per inspection. An in ground pool has no flat line item and is charged on the estimated project cost permit fee scale plus the 20% plan examination fee. See the official fee schedule for current amounts.

Where do you apply for a pool permit in Ann Arbor?

You can apply through the Ann Arbor permit portal or contact the City of Ann Arbor Building, Rental and Inspection Services (Construction and Building), with zoning review by Planning and Development Services directly. The links are listed on this page.

Can a homeowner pull a pool permit themselves in Ann Arbor?

Under Michigan law (MCL 339.2403(b), (c); MCL 339.2401(a)(iii), (b)(ii)(A); MCL 339.5737(3)(g); MCL 339.6107(2)(d); MCL 339.5819): Yes. A Michigan homeowner may pull the building permit and do the work on their own home without a residential builder license, because the licensing article both defines the trade to exclude them and exempts them outright. MCL 339.2401(a)(iii) says a residential builder is a person that erects a residential structure except for the person's own use and occupancy on the person's property, and MCL 339.2403(b) exempts an owner of property with reference to a structure on the property for the owner's own use and occupancy. Own use and occupancy is the condition, so the exemption does not cover building to sell, and MCL 339.2403(c) limits owners of rental property to maintenance and alteration of that property. The statute sets no cap on how many times a homeowner may use the exemption; the only frequency rule in the article catches purchase, substantial rehabilitation, and resale of the same structure more than twice in 1 calendar year, and MCL 339.2401(b)(ii)(A) exempts work for the person's own use and occupancy from even that. Homeowners can also pull their own trade permits: electrical work in a single family home and accompanying outbuildings owned and occupied or to be occupied by the person doing the work (MCL 339.5737(3)(g)), their own plumbing, building sewer, or private sewer in their single-family dwelling if a permit is secured (MCL 339.6107(2)(d)), and a heating or refrigerating system if the owner affirms in the permit application that they are or will become the owner and occupant (MCL 339.5819). Confirm how Ann Arbor applies this before you apply.