Pool Permit in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a pool permit in Grand Rapids?

A building permit is required in Grand Rapids for a pool or hot tub, and the city defines the trigger by water depth: any structure capable of reaching 24 inches of water or more. In-ground pools also draw electrical bonding, rough plumbing, and final plumbing inspections beyond the standard rough and final electrical and final building inspections, and the applicant submits separate electrical and plumbing permit applications as applicable. The Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs permit guide reproduces the barrier requirements the installation must meet, including a barrier at least 48 inches above grade with no more than a 2 inch gap at the bottom and self-closing, self-latching gates. Pool paper applications are accepted in person only. Water depth a pool, hot tub, spa or similar structure is capable of reaching. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a pool permit cost in Grand Rapids?

FY 2027 Planning, Design and Development Fee Schedule effective July 1, 2026, Building Permits: "Residential Pool $66.00 plus Zoning Permit fee", with footnote 6 setting the 1-2 family Zoning Permit fee at $25 and footnote 4 allowing two flat fee permits to be combined for a $20 discount. Electrical Permit Fees add "Pool (bonding, motor, light with 2 inspections) $63.00" or "Hot Tub $21.00" on top of the electrical "Application (Includes 1 inspection) $52.00". See the official fee schedule for current amounts.

How long does a pool permit take in Grand Rapids?

In Grand Rapids, a pool permit typically takes 1 to 2 business days for the online application; the Development Center's goal is same day review of a complete single-family application. Times can vary by workload and project scope, so confirm with the office.

Where do you apply for a pool permit in Grand Rapids?

You can apply through the Grand Rapids permit portal or contact the City of Grand Rapids Development Center, Building Inspections Division directly. The links are listed on this page.

Can a homeowner pull a pool permit themselves in Grand Rapids?

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 Grand Rapids applies this before you apply.