Do you know the regulations for shell pools?

Have you decided to turn your garden into a place for the whole family to relax and enjoy themselves? A shell pool is an excellent choice. Modern design, rapid installation, easy maintenance... there's no shortage of advantages.

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 permits are required? However, the answer depends on a number of criteria, including the size of your pool and the associated equipment.

General case for in-ground shell pools

If your is less than 10 m², you're in theyou're in the simplest category: no authorization is required. This means you can start work without any administrative formalities. These mini-pools are ideal for those who want a quick solution without regulatory hassle.

For a swimming pool between 10 m² and 100 m², youyou will need to submit a prior declaration of work with your local town hall. While this procedure is generally quick and straightforward, it is compulsory. Failure to do so may result in suspension of work, or even financial penalties.

If your pool project exceeds 100 m², a planning permission is required. The procedure is longer and requires a more complete dossier, 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 homeowners choose to install a pool enclosure to extend the swimming season and make the area safer. But beware pool enclosures administrative obligations.

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

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 consultation of the Plan Local d'Urbanisme (PLU) is essential to avoid any setbacks.

Respect local planning regulations (PLU)

The Local Urban Plan (PLU) is a fundamental document that sets town-planning rules specific to your commune. In particular, it specifies :

• 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 this town planning code takes precedence over national regulations. What is authorized in one commune may be prohibited in another. A neighbor may be in compliance, while you may face restrictions for an identical project.

Anticipating these constraints right from the design phase will help you avoid costly last-minute modifications or permit refusals that can delay your project by several months.

At Aboral Piscineswe systematically help our customers to check local regulations to ensure that their project complies with regulations, even before filing a declaration or requesting a permit.

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 :

• A protective barrier compliant with NF standards.
• A or perimeter alarm.
• A safety cover rigid or motorized.
• A 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

Building a shell pool increases the value of your property. That's great news if you're thinking of selling your property one day. But it 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 pool increases the cadastral rental value of your propertyThis can lead to an increase in your property tax. However, this increase is often reasonable in view of 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?

The in-ground pool regulations are complex: between the authorizations to be obtained, the safety standards to be met and the tax rules to be anticipated, the risks of error are numerous.

Ask an experienced pool specialist like Aboral Piscinesyou 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' experience and thousands of successful projects, Aboral Piscines is the partner you can trust to turn your dream into reality.

Ready to take action? Contact Aboral Piscines. Our experts are on hand to advise you, help you with the administrative formalities and help you design the pool of your dreams, in compliance with all regulations.