Do you know the regulations for shell pools?

Have you decided to transform your garden into a relaxation and leisure space for the whole family? Ashell poolis an excellent choice. Modern design, quick installation, easy maintenance… the advantages are numerous.

But before you enjoy your first dives, there's one essential point to remember: the regulations. From administrative formalities to safety standards to safety standards taxationmastering these aspects is essential to the success of your project.

Here's everything you need to know before getting started.

Planning permission or prior declaration: what does the law say?

When considering the construction of a shell pool, the first question you need to ask yourself is:what authorizations are necessary?However, the answer depends on several criteria, notably the size of your pool and associated equipment.

General case for in-ground shell pools

If thesurface area of your pool is less than 10 m², you fall into the simplest category:no authorization is required. This means you can start the work without any administrative formalities. Thesemini-poolsare ideal for those who want a quick solution without regulatory hassle.

For apool between 10 m² and 100 m², you will need to file aprior declaration of workswith your local town hall. This procedure is generally quick and not very restrictive, but it remains mandatory. Failure to comply can lead to the suspension of the construction site or even financial penalties.

If yourswimming pool project exceeds 100 m², abuilding permit will be required. The procedure is longer and requires a more complete file, often including detailed plans and a possible impact study.

Anticipating these deadlines is essential to avoid delaying the installation of your pool!

Special case of sheltered pools

Many owners choose to install apool enclosureto extend the swimming season and secure the area. But be careful:pool enclosureschange administrative obligations.

• If the height of the shelter is less than or equal to 1.80 meters, aprior declarationis generally sufficient.
• If the height exceeds 1.80 metres, you'll need to apply for a building permit application. 

Please note that even a removable or sliding shelter may be subject to these rules, depending on its size and location. We recommend that you check these aspects at the design stage of your project!

Protected or restricted areas

If your property is located near a historic monument, in a listed zone or in a protected area, special rules may apply. Some zones require particular materials or colors, or even restrictions on the size or or location of the pool. 

A visit to the town hall or a consultation of theLocal Urban Plan(PLU) is essential to avoid any setbacks.

Respect local planning regulations (PLU)

TheLocal Urban Plan (PLU)is a fundamental document that sets theurban planning rulesspecific to your municipality. It specifies in particular:

• The distance between your pool and property boundaries. In most cases, this minimum distance is 3 meters, but it can vary according to local conditions.
• Maximum height of equipment.
• Aesthetic constraints, especially if your home is located in an architecturally sensitive area.

It is important to understand that thistown planning codetakes precedence over national regulations. What is permitted in one municipality may be prohibited in another. A neighbor may be in compliance, while for an identical project, you could face restrictions.

Anticipating these constraints from the design phase will save you costly last-minute changes or permit rejections that can delay your project by several months.

WithAboral Piscines, we systematically assist our clients in verifying local regulations to ensure project compliance even before the declaration or permit submission.

Mandatory safety standards for private pools

When you install a swimming pool at home, you're offering your family a place to relax and enjoy themselves, but you're also taking on a major responsibility. Since 2004, French legislation has required all private in-ground or semi-in-ground pools to be equipped with at least one approved safety device.

You can choose between :

• Aprotective barriercompliant with NF standards.
• Local submerged or perimeter alarm.
• Arigid or motorizedsafety cover.
• An secure pool enclosure.

The aim is clear: to avoid the risk of drowning, especially for young children. In France, too many accidents occur every year in unsafe private pools.

Failure to comply with this obligation can have serious consequences: a fine of up to €45,000, but above all, in the event of an accident, you could be held civilly or even criminally liable.

The tax impact of installing a shell pool

Installing a shell poolincreases the value of your property. This is excellent news if you ever plan to sell your home. But this appreciation also has tax implications.

Development tax

All swimming pools with a surface area of more than 10 m² are subject to development tax.
The amount varies according to :

• The surface area of your pond.
• The rates applied by your commune and department.

This tax is generally payable only once, following the declaration of your pool.

Property tax

Adding a swimming pool increases therental value of your property, which may lead to an increase in your property tax. This increase often remains reasonable compared to the added value the pool brings to your property.

Our Aboral experts can help you estimate the tax impact of your project so that you can incorporate it into your overall budget.

Why use a recognized pool manufacturer?

Theregulation of in-ground swimming poolsis complex: between the authorizations to obtain, the safety standards to respect, and the tax rules to anticipate, the risks of error are numerous.

By inquiring with an experienced pool professional likeAboral Piscines, you benefit from several major advantages:

• Personalized support for all administrative procedures.
• An in-depth study of your terrain and local constraints.
• Advice on the safety equipment and technical solutions best suited to your needs.
• Total peace of mind: you can concentrate on the choice of design, materials and the projection of your future poolside pleasures.

With over 30 years of experience and thousands of successful achievements,Aboral Piscinesis the trusted partner to turn your dream into reality.

Ready to take action? Contact us nowAboral Piscines. Our experts are available to advise you, assist you with administrative procedures, and help you design the pool of your dreams, in compliance with all regulations.