Cambridge pool enclosure permit: when you need one and what to submit
The short answer
Yes, for any pool or hot tub that can hold 76.2 cm (30 in) of water or more. City fee: $224 above-ground or hot tub, $250 in-ground.
Last verified 2026-10-07 · City of Cambridge: Common by-law inquiries (fences, pools), City of Cambridge Fence By-law 92-05 (PDF), City of Cambridge Fees and Charges By-law 25-079, 2026 (PDF)- City fee
- $224 above-ground or hot tub, $250 in-ground
- Where to apply
- City of Cambridge application portal
The fence and gates have to be at least 1.5 m (5 ft) high, with gates that lock. No water until the City's final inspection, and starting before the permit doubles the fee.
What an application usually includes
Cambridge’s checklist has the exact list; apply through City of Cambridge application portal.
- A site plan showing the pool, the enclosure and the gates
- A cross-section of the fence with its height and openings
- Gate details: self-closing, self-latching, latch height
- The application, and an inspection before you fill the pool
Local quirks
- No water in a pool or hot tub until the City's final inspection, and building before the permit doubles the pool permit fee.
- A deck has to stay at least 3.0 m (about 10 ft) from the rear lot line.
- Removing or damaging a private tree 20 cm (8 in) across or more needs its own tree permit.
Design your Cambridge pool enclosure to the Building Code.
The design, drawings and code checks work in Cambridge today. Cambridge’s own forms aren’t built in yet, so you’ll fill those in on the City’s portal.