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Planning commission recommends Chapter 150 pool-code updates to City Council
Summary
Staff proposed harmonizing two sections of code and updating safety standards for pools and spas (definitions, secure ladders, fencing, deck load info). Commissioners asked staff to reconcile permit language and consider whether to keep a 4-foot fence or adopt Ramsey County's 5-foot guidance.
City staff presented proposed text amendments to Chapter 150 of the municipal code to update and harmonize existing pool regulations, particularly those that appear to apply to multi-unit or commercial pools. Staff said the updates clarify definitions (for example, spa pools), outline when a building permit versus a zoning permit is required (based on 5,000-gallon and 24-inch depth thresholds in state building code), and add several safety details. "Swimming pools, they're great," a staff member said, then walked the commission through recommended changes intended to align the code with industry practice and neighboring cities.
A major safety change staff proposed is requiring that ladders be secured or removed when a pool is unattended to prevent unsupervised access. Staff also recommended clarifying fencing standards, gate latching, and prohibiting climbable structures near safety fences. Commissioners discussed whether a 4-foot fence (proposed) is adequate or whether the city should consider a 5-foot standard commonly noted in county guidance for licensed pools; staff noted county standards typically apply to pools licensed by the health department. The commission voted to recommend Chapter 150 to the City Council with the discussed edits and asked staff to reconcile inconsistencies between the two code sections before council review.
