How to Get a Pool & Hot Tub Permit in High Point, NC (2026 Guide)

Everything you need to know about swimming pool, hot tub, or spa permits in High Point, NC, local requirements, fees, timelines, and how to apply.

By Joey, Founder · Last updated May 23, 2026 · How we research →

$80 – $1,200 Permit Fees
about 1 week Approval Time
3 Local Rules

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Do You Need a Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Permit in High Point?

Based on High Point's local building codes, you'll need a permit when:

Required·Rule 1

Above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches require a building permit and safety barrier.

SourceCity of High Point Code / 2018 NC Building Code
Required·Rule 2

In-ground pools require building, electrical, and plumbing permits.

SourceCity of High Point Code / 2018 NC Building Code

These swimming pool, hot tub, or spa projects are typically exempt in High Point:

Exempt·Rule 1

Small above-ground pools (24 inches deep or less) do not require a building permit.

SourceCity of High Point Code / 2018 NC Building Code

Permit Fees in High Point

Based on local High Point permit data, fees for swimming pool, hot tub, or spa projects typically range:

$80 – $1,200 High Point Permit Fee Range

Here's how fees break down by project scope nationally:

Project ScopeTypical Permit Fee
Above-ground pool permit$50 – $300
In-ground pool permit (standard)$500 – $2,000
In-ground pool with spa, electrical, and gas$1,000 – $3,000+
Electrical permit (pool equipment)$50 – $500
Fence/barrier permit$50 – $500
Plan review fee (may be separate)$50 – $500

Fees are typically calculated based on estimated project value. Contact Inspections Services Department for exact amounts.

How Long Does It Take?

In High Point, typical approval time for swimming pool, hot tub, or spa permits is about 1 week.

More complex projects requiring structural review or variances may take longer. Simple projects may qualify for expedited or over-the-counter review in some cases.

How to Apply for a Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Permit in High Point

  1. 1 Check requirements: Use our free lookup tool or contact Inspections Services Department to confirm your project needs a permit.
  2. 2 Gather documents: Prepare your application, site plan, construction drawings, and any other required documents.
  3. 3 Submit online: High Point accepts applications online at Inspections Services Department.
  4. 4 Pay fees: Pay the applicable permit fees ($80 – $1,200).
  5. 5 Wait for approval: Your application will be reviewed by High Point plan reviewers. Typical turnaround is about 1 week.
  6. 6 Begin work: Once approved, post your permit visibly at the job site before starting work.
  7. 7 Schedule inspections: Call Inspections Services Department at (336) 883-3151 to schedule required inspections at each phase of the project.

High Point Building Department Contact

NameInspections Services Department
Apply OnlineApply online
Address211 South Hamilton Street, Room 316, High Point, NC 27260
HoursMon-Fri 8am-5pm

Required Inspections in High Point

Most swimming pool, hot tub, or spa projects in High Point require inspections at each construction stage:

Inspection·Stage 1

Excavation / Pre-Steel Inspection, Excavation dimensions match approved plans, proper depth and shape, soil conditions are adequate, setbacks from property lines verified on-site, and no conflicts with utilities or easements.

WhenAfter excavation is complete but before reinforcing steel is placed
Common FailuresPool location doesn't match approved site plan, excavation too close to property line, unexpected soil conditions requiring engineering changes.
Inspection·Stage 2

Steel / Rebar and Plumbing Inspection, Rebar spacing, placement, and tie-wire connections per engineering plans, main drain installed and positioned correctly, bonding wire (8 AWG minimum solid copper) attached to rebar grid, all plumbing lines in place and pressure-tested (minimum 35 PSI for 15 minutes with no leaks).

WhenAfter reinforcing steel is installed and plumbing lines are in place, but before gunite or shotcrete is applied, this is one of the most critical inspections
Common FailuresRebar spacing incorrect, bonding wire not properly connected to rebar, plumbing failing pressure test, main drain position doesn't match plans.
Inspection·Stage 3

Electrical Bonding Inspection, All metal within 5 feet of pool edge is bonded with minimum 8 AWG bare solid copper, equipotential bonding grid extends 3 feet horizontally beyond pool walls, grid installed 4–6 inches below deck subgrade, bonding connections at minimum 4 points around the perimeter, pool water bonded via a listed device, and GFCI protection on all pool pump circuits.

WhenAfter the bonding grid is installed but before the pool deck is poured
Common FailuresBonding grid not extending far enough beyond pool walls, missing connections to nearby metal (fences, door frames, railings within 5 feet), incorrect conductor size.
Inspection·Stage 4

Barrier / Fence Inspection, Fence meets 48-inch minimum height, gates are self-closing and self-latching, latch at 54 inches on non-pool side, no openings allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through, bottom clearance within limits (2 inches over soft surfaces, 4 inches over hard surfaces), no climbable features on the outside, and fence completely encloses the pool area.

WhenAfter the pool fence or barrier is installed, must typically be complete before the pool is filled with water
Common FailuresGates not self-closing properly, latch height too low, openings exceeding 4 inches, climbable horizontal rails on the outside of fence, fence doesn't fully enclose the pool.
Inspection·Stage 5

Final Inspection, All previous corrections verified, GFCI protection confirmed on all pool circuits, all bonding and grounding per NEC 680, equipment properly installed and operational, receptacles at proper distance from pool (minimum 6 feet), drain covers are ASME A112.19.8 compliant (anti-entrapment), barrier fully compliant, and all permits can be closed.

WhenAfter all work is complete, pool filled, equipment running, all finishes and safety features in place
Common FailuresGFCI not functional, drain covers not anti-entrapment compliant, equipment not properly grounded, outstanding corrections from earlier inspections.

Schedule inspections with Inspections Services Department at (336) 883-3151 at least 24–48 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you need a permit depends on the size and scope of your swimming pool, hot tub, or spa project. In High Point, some smaller projects are exempt while larger ones require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.

Permit fees for swimming pool, hot tub, or spa projects in High Point typically range from $80 – $1,200. Fees are usually based on the estimated project value.

Typical approval time in High Point is about 1 week. Complex projects requiring structural review may take longer.

In most cases, homeowners in High Point can pull permits and perform work on their own primary residence as an owner-builder. You're still responsible for meeting all code requirements and passing inspections.

Working without a required permit in High Point can result in fines, stop-work orders, required removal of completed work, and complications when selling your home.

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Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Permits in Nearby Cities

See swimming pool, hot tub, or spa permit requirements in other North Carolina cities:

See Detailed Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Rules for High Point

View all local rules, exemptions, and fee details on the permit page.

Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Permit Rules →
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about swimming pool, hot tub, or spa permit requirements in High Point, NC. Requirements can change. Always confirm with Inspections Services Department before starting any project. PermitMint provides general guidance, not legal advice.