(Seguin) – Before cooling off in your swimming pool at home, you might want to make sure that you have the proper permit. The city of Seguin’s Code Compliance Department is once again reminding families to secure their permit for any above-ground or in-ground pool or spa.
Jennifer Sourdellia, the public information officer for the city of Seguin, says Article 8 of Chapter 18 of the city’s ordinance addresses swimming pools and spas.
“I’m just going to let everyone know that this permit process is not something new. It has been around and in existence for a while and it has also been written in our city’s ordinance for quite a long time. We understand that with the wave pool not open in the summer that some of our residents may be considering installing in ground or above ground pools and yes, a permit is required for any pool that is two foot or deeper. This also includes hot tubs and spas,” said Sourdellia.
Although many might argue or question the permit, Sourdellia says an unsecured swimming pool or spa can become “a safety issue.” She says that’s why the permit process also requires an enclosure.
“Everyone is wondering why we require a permit — it’s for safety reasons. We also require a 48 inch fence or enclosure be around the swimming pool also because summer in Texas is really really hot and we wouldn’t want anyone’s child accidentally wandering into someone else’s yard and getting into a pool and falling in and possibly drowning. We definitely want to keep people safe and keep our citizens safe and all the children safe,” said Sourdellia.
According to city officials, it should be noted that insurance “may not cover accidents or damages if swimming pool does not meet code.” They suggest that each resident also discuss their swimming pool with their insurance provider. They say in the end, each resident having a swimming pool 24 inches or deeper is responsible for being safe and in compliance. Those wanting to know how to obtain a permit or who may have additional questions are asked to contact the city’s permits department at 830-386-2230.