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London pool fence permits: application, gates and filling rules
London, Ontario, Canada
A London pool that meets the by-law definition needs an approved enclosure permit before installation, even when a fence already exists. Plan the pool, equipment, drainage and enclosure together.
Key information
A London pool that meets the by-law definition needs an approved enclosure permit before installation, even when a fence already exists. Plan the pool, equipment, drainage and enclosure together.
On this page
Pool fence application checklist
| Document | What it must show |
|---|---|
| Application | Complete and legible permit form |
| Site plan | Pool, property-line distances, fence, gate, equipment, dwelling and garage doors |
| Fence details | Fence type and required construction details |
| Undertaking | Letter covering damage to city property |
| In-ground grading plan | Approved professional plan preserving neighbouring drainage |
| Other approvals | Utility or conservation approvals where applicable |
Key checks at a glance
- Digital application and payment
Email individual clearly named PDFs to zoning@london.ca.
- Pool and equipment layout
The inside pool wall must be at least 1.5 metres from a property line and no closer to a street than the required setback.
- Enclosure and gate responsibilities
Any access gate must be self-closing and self-latching.
Digital application and payment
Email individual clearly named PDFs to zoning@london.ca. Use the subject “Municipal Address - Swimming Pool Fence Permit Application”. Paper copies are no longer accepted. An incomplete package may delay review. Payment instructions arrive when the permit is ready for issuance.
The page quotes a fee of $200 or $12.50 for each $1,000 of reported construction value, whichever is greater. It labels that figure as effective September 18, 2018. Because the reference date is old, confirm the amount in the current payment instructions rather than treating it as a newly adopted 2026 fee.
Pool and equipment layout
The inside pool wall must be at least 1.5 metres from a property line and no closer to a street than the required setback. The zoning rules also cover diving boards, pool decks, cabanas, sheds, pumps and filters. Include them in the design.
A deck or shed may require a separate building permit. In a new subdivision, confirm whether the city has assumed the subdivision and review lot grading. Blocking swales or changing drainage can require expensive redesign or removal.
Enclosure and gate responsibilities
Any access gate must be self-closing and self-latching. The enclosure must completely surround the pool; a hedge is not a substitute. Typical acceptable materials include chain-link, solid wood and wrought iron, subject to the full by-law construction rules.
A full replacement of the enclosure requires a new permit and current standards. Replacing one section may not require a new permit if a valid permit exists and the replacement remains compliant. The owner must maintain the enclosure. A pool deck does not remove the fence requirement.
Inspection and adding water
Call 519-661-4660 when the fence is built. The page says water may be added after a fully compliant permanent enclosure is installed. If a permanent fence is not complete, a temporary fence meeting section 5.10 is required before water is added; notify pfinspection@london.ca on or before that day.
Temporary fencing may remain up to 120 days for a new pool or 30 days for an existing pool unless the city extends the period. A previously permitted above-ground pool changed to in-ground does not require a new enclosure permit under the page’s stated exception, but setbacks and a drainage plan still apply.
Questions and answers
Does an existing fence remove the permit requirement?
No. The city requires an enclosure permit before installation whether the fence is new or existing.
Does a small pool need a fence?
The page gives the threshold as depth over 75 cm at any point and surface area over one square metre. Ask zoning about a particular product.
Is a locked hot tub treated as a pool?
A hot tub or swim spa with a fitted, secured lid while unused is not treated as a pool under the page’s guidance.
Can a hedge enclose the pool?
No. It does not meet the enclosure requirement.
What kind of gate is needed?
Any gate or other access in the enclosure must be self-closing and self-latching.
How far must the inside pool wall be from a boundary?
At least 1.5 metres, with street setback rules also applying.
Where do I email the application?
zoning@london.ca, with the address and Swimming Pool Fence Permit Application in the subject.
Who books the fence inspection?
The owner or responsible applicant calls 519-661-4660 once construction is complete.
Can temporary fencing stay all year?
No. The listed limits are 120 days for a new pool and 30 days for an existing pool, unless extended.
Do I need a separate permit for a pool deck?
Possibly. Size and height matter; contact Building Services at 519-661-4555.