This summer, I finally realized my dream of adding a designer swimming pool to my garden. With just weeks until the season starts, my project is on track for timely completion, thanks to careful planning.
Before choosing your designer pool, review the rules for inground installations. Governed by the Town Planning Code—unlike above-ground pools—these projects require checking with your local town hall first.
A building permit may be needed, or just a prior declaration of works. Violations can lead to fines of €35,000 to €75,000. Outdoor pools ≤10m² with shelters ≤1.80m high are exempt. Indoor pools qualify if no structural changes occur.
In my protected-area home, authorization was required even for a sub-10m² plan. I scaled up but handled the paperwork smoothly.
For 10-100m² pools without shelter (or ≤1.80m shelter height), file a prior declaration. Get the form from your municipality, complete it, and submit via registered mail or in person. I dropped mine off to consult the planning department—they even mandated the pool frame color, a detail I hadn't anticipated.
Pools exceeding 100m² (up to around 200m²) require a building permit. Assemble a file with land location plans, building layouts, and site photos. Start early; decisions take 1-2 months.
