Which permit for which pool?
If you are planning to build a swimming pool in your garden, the permits you need depend on the size of the pool. If it is 10 m2 or less, covered or not, no application is required. For a pool of more than 10 m2 that is uncovered, or that has a fixed or removable cover less than 1.80 m above the ground, you must submit a prior declaration of works (déclaration préalable). However, for pools of 100 m2 or more, or with a cover more than 1.80 m high, a building permit is required. That said, if you are in a protected or listed area, these rules change, and a building permit is most often required!
Beyond these permits, we advise you to check with your local council’s planning department whether any specific local rules apply: pool dimensions, distance to be kept from your neighbours… On a housing estate, the estate regulations may also impose certain constraints. Well worth checking!
And what about the safety of young children?
Swimming pools must now be fitted with safety devices to protect young children and prevent any risk of drowning, from the moment they are first filled. For in-ground or semi-in-ground pools that are not enclosed, you can choose between four systems approved by the French standards body (Afnor) and endorsed by the government:
- safety barriers and means of access to the pool;
- an alarm system;
- a safety cover and fastening devices;
- a pool enclosure.
These standards can be obtained from Afnor (Association française de normalisation, the French standards body) or on its website, www.afnor.fr
Since 1 January 2006, all existing unenclosed in-ground pools must be made safe, failing which a fine of up to €45,000 may be imposed!