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Effective March 31, 2021, applicants must obtain a Zoning Applicable Law Certificate before applying for a Pool Fence Enclosure Permit.

If an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, pond or whirlpool (or other outdoor structure capable of being used for swimming) has a depth of more than 600 mm (23.62 inches) you will need to install a pool fence enclosure. This may also apply to inflatable pools and man-made pools.

A pool enclosure fence is not required for a hot tub, whirlpool or spa if it has a cover permanently attached to it that can be locked to prevent access when it is not in use.

What do you need to apply?

  1. Apply for a Zoning Applicable Law Certificate with the City of Toronto’s Building Division. For more information, please visit Zoning Applicable Law Certificate Pool Fence Enclosure
  2. If your Zoning Applicable Law Certificate is approved, apply for a Pool Fence Enclosure Permit with the City of Toronto’s Municipal Licensing & Standards (MLS) Division.

For more information, please visit MLS - Pool Fence Enclosure. To apply for a Pool Fence Enclosure Permit or to follow up on the status of your pool permit, please visit the City of Toronto, Swimming Pool Enclosure website.

You may need to hire a landscape architect, architect, surveyor, or engineer to create your site plan.

To help you understand the proper documentation and other requirements for completing the application and to ensure a quick review and approval, please view the Frequently Asked Questions - Pool Fence Enclosure Permit Applications.

What do I do once I have my permit?

Prior to undertaking any work under this Pool Fence Enclosure Permit, you are required to contact the Bylaw Enforcement Officer for a pre-construction inspection by contacting MLS Pool Permits.

You cannot fill a swimming pool with water or permit water to collect or remain in a swimming pool until the City has conducted an inspection and confirmed the completion of a permanent swimming pool enclosure that fully complies with the bylaw. Contact 311 to book an inspection. If you use the pool before this inspection, you may face a fine.

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