Pool Permit in Detroit, Michigan

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a pool permit in Detroit?

BSEED's published list of work for which building permits are not required exempts only prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, hold no more than 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground. Anything deeper, larger or built in ground falls back on the general building permit requirement. Separately, the Property Maintenance Code at 2019 Detroit City Code Sec. 8-15-109 requires every swimming pool to be entirely enclosed by a fence at least four feet high with a self-closing and self-latching gate and to be equipped with a water filtration device, and requires in-grade pools to have underwater lighting. Prefabricated above-ground pool accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy holding not more than 5,000 gallons. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a pool permit cost in Detroit?

Building permit fees are based on project cost under the BSEED Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2024, modified 7/18/2025: $2,000 or less, Flat $271.43; Over $2,000 but not over $25,000, First $2,000 Base $271.43 plus $34.09 Per $1,000 or fraction thereof over $2,000. Pool wiring is charged separately on the electrical schedule, PART A Base fee $66 plus $20 for each circuit. See the official fee schedule for current amounts.

How long does a pool permit take in Detroit?

In Detroit, a pool permit typically takes about 5 days for a residential building permit after the application is submitted. Times can vary by workload and project scope, so confirm with the office.

Where do you apply for a pool permit in Detroit?

You can apply through the Detroit permit portal or contact the City of Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) directly. The links are listed on this page.

Can a homeowner pull a pool permit themselves in Detroit?

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 Detroit applies this before you apply.