WORKSHOP ITEM Bryan Schafer, Planning and Community Development Director
Title
CONSIDER AMENDING REGULATIONS FOR SWIMMING POOLS
Background
Blaine’s ordinance that regulates the construction and placement of back yard swimming pools has not had any significant revisions in decades. The pool industry however, and in particular the advances in created quieter and more efficient pool equipment, has been substantial.
Every summer Blaine issues approximately 6-8 swimming pools in residential back yards. An issue that has been present with much more frequency has been the actual placement of pool equipment (heaters/pumps/filters). In reviewing this issue more closely over the past year it appears other Cities have created a lot more flexibility in determining where this equipment can be located.
Recommended Pool Ordinance Change Highlights
• Proposed definition changes to match both the MN State Pool Code and the MN Building Code - no impact.
• Would remove previous requirement for a permit needed for any pool greater than 200 square feet in size or greater than 24 inches in depth. The permit threshold would be increased to 5,000 gallons and greater than 24 inches in depth. This also mirrors State Residential Building Code and recognizes that most above ground pools (inflatable and plastic sides) deeper than 24 inches never obtain permits.
• Would allow pool equipment in side yard (10 foot setback) if unit has a max average noise decibel level of 60 dB. Rear yard only, and 10 foot setback, if pool equipment cannot meet noise decibel requirements
Ø This change is due to the improved technology which makes pool equipment quieter than standard air conditioning equipment. Most new 2-3 ton air conditioners on the market are between 65 and 74 decibels.
• Would remove previous requirement that pool equipment (heater/filter) be at least 35 feet from neighboring house.
Ø Pool equipment is now quieter than the past.
Ø Blaine’s requirement is much stricter than similar cities.
• Proposed pool standards would match the requirements of the 2012 International Swimming Pool Code. These changes only help clarify and modernize existing fence and gate requirements.
Ø Example - the maximum opening formed by a chain link fence shall now be 1.75 inches instead of 1.5 inches.
Ø Example - Approved lockable safety covers can now be used in lieu of a fence/barrier.
Summary of suburban setback standards:
|
CITY |
POOL SETBACK |
EQUIPMENT SETBACK |
|
|
|
(Allowed in Side & Rear Yard Except as Noted) |
|
Apple Valley |
5' |
None |
|
Bloomington |
18' |
15' |
|
Burnsville |
5' side/8' rear |
None (Rear yard only for equipment) |
|
Lakeville |
10' |
None |
|
Maple Grove |
5' |
None (Rear yard only for equipment) |
|
Plymouth |
6' |
6' |
|
Roseville |
3' |
None |
|
Coon Rapids |
5’ |
10’ (20’side yard corner lot) |
|
Woodbury |
10’ |
None |
|
Blaine |
10' |
10’ (and 35-feet from any adjacent house) |
Recommendation
Staff is looking for City Council direction or consensus prior to processing these changes.