Do I need a permit for swimming pool or spa in Downers Grove?
Yes. In Illinois, swimming pool or spa generally requires a permit, and Downers Grove is no exception.
In-ground and permanent above-ground pools require a permit in most Illinois jurisdictions. The often-quoted exemption for prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep comes from the model residential code, not from Illinois law, so confirm the depth and pool type your jurisdiction actually exempts. Most local codes mandate a compliant safety barrier and electrical bonding before the pool can be used. Swimming pools require a permit in Downers Grove and are reviewed under the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as adopted by the Village. A Pool Information form is part of the submittal. Pool barrier and safety fencing must comply with the Village code and the Illinois pool barrier requirements. Confirm barrier height, gate, and alarm rules with Community Development.
Documents you may need
- Site plan showing pool location and setbacksrequired
- Barrier/fence and gate detailsrequired
- Electrical bonding and equipment planLikely required
- Pool structure/equipment spec sheetsSometimes required
- Building permit application via the Village permit portal (cvportal.downers.us)required
- Pool Information form and plat of survey showing pool and barrier locationrequired
- Electrical Application for pool bonding and equipmentrequired
Possible inspections
- Bonding/electrical inspection
- Barrier/fence inspection
- Final inspection
- Bonding and grounding inspection
- Barrier or safety fence inspection
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for swimming pool or spa in Downers Grove?
- Yes. In Illinois, swimming pool or spa generally requires a permit, and Downers Grove is no exception. In-ground and permanent above-ground pools require a permit in most Illinois jurisdictions. The often-quoted exemption for prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep comes from the model residential code, not from Illinois law, so confirm the depth and pool type your jurisdiction actually exempts. Most local codes mandate a compliant safety barrier and electrical bonding before the pool can be used. Swimming pools require a permit in Downers Grove and are reviewed under the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as adopted by the Village. A Pool Information form is part of the submittal. Pool barrier and safety fencing must comply with the Village code and the Illinois pool barrier requirements. Confirm barrier height, gate, and alarm rules with Community Development.
- Who issues the permit in Downers Grove?
- The local building department for Downers Grove handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.
- How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?
- Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.
PermitRoadmap is an independent informational service and is not affiliated with any city, county, state agency, or permitting authority. Results are informational and do not replace confirming requirements with the local permitting authority.