Hot tubs or whirlpools are considered the same as swimming pools under the Alberta Building Code, where safety regulations are applied when the depth of water is greater than 600 mm (24 inches).

Permanent hot tubs and whirlpools require both a development permit and a building permit, regardless of whether they are stand alone or built into a deck. Temporary hot tubs and whirlpools do not usually require a development permit but may still require a building permit.

Any mechanical work involved in the installation of the hot tub will require separate mechanical permits since mechanical work is not included in the building permit. (See Electrical,  Plumbing and Gas for more information). 

Guidelines

The Alberta Building Code requires that the contained body of water be as safe as possible at all times.

Conditions

To prevent drowning, a hot tub must be protected from unauthorized access by a fence, wall or enclosure that has a minimum height of 1.8 meters (6 ft) and can't be climbed from the outside. Openings for access through the fence must be protected by:

• A gate the same height as the fence, and
• A self closing and self-latching device that is capable of being locked and is installed on the inside of the gate at least 1.5 m (5 ft) above the ground level.

For more information:

Installing a Hot Tub brochure.

Fence Exemptions

A gated fence is not required if the hot tub:

• Does not exceed 2.4 m (8 ft) across the widest portion of its water surface.
• Has a lockable cover strong enough to support the weight of an adult walking across the top.
• Is covered and locked whenever the hot tub is unsupervised.

Hot Tub in a Deck

If you plan on installing a hot tub in your deck, you must also include the following information with your application:

• Elevation plans
• Floor plans
• Cross section plans
• Construction details

Related Information:

• Deck Construction Form for decks under 6 feet  
• Deck Brochure

Application Procedure

If there is an existing fence around your property and it meets the requirements, submit a letter of confirmation along with your application.

To apply, fill in the Hot Tub Application form and include all required information as outlined.  Please be sure to include all applicable application fees. 

1. A development officer will review the application based on the Edmonton Zoning Bylaw. If approved, a development permit will be issued.
2. If required, the application plans are then reviewed by a plans examiner. It is in this stage a building permit is issued.
3. If an application is refused, an appeal can be made through the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, Churchill Building, 10019-103 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 0G9,  Phone: 780-496-6079.
   

Development permit fee: $105

Building permit fee: $100

The safety code fee: $4.50

Note: There is an additional $40 fee if development permit is discretionary and notices need to be sent out.

For more information:

Current Planning Service Centre