Licenses and Permits

Permit requirements for new outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, and water features

 The primary intent of these regulations is to minimize the danger that pools, hot tubs, and water features present for small children. The Town of Niverville’s Zoning Bylaw adopts the Manitoba Building Code and related standards for these types of features.

A permit is required to construct/install a pool, hot tub, or other water feature located outdoors which is capable of holding a water depth of greater than 2 feet*. Permits are also required for associated construction such as decks (24 inches or higher), change houses, sunrooms, etc.

*Although pool advertising and packaging may indicate that a pool is less than 2 feet deep, many still have the capacity to hold 2 feet of water and children are at risk to drown. Pools that have features such as inflatable ring edges that allow the depth of the pool to increase to beyond 2 feet should be included in any pool’s depth measurement.

Niverville’s Zoning Bylaw requires that a pool, hot tub, or similar structure be located a minimum of 5 feet from either the side or rear property line.

(Property owners are encouraged to check with their insurance providers regarding permitted distances between water features and their homes.)

Pool equipment and/or compressors may be located in a front yard if screened with compact hedges or shrubs or other landscaping and should be no closer than 5 feet to a side site line in all residential zones.

The pool or hot tub area must be protected by either:

1. In compliance with the current Manitoba Building code requirements, a fence with self-closing, lockable gates, and a minimum height of 6 feet (1.83m) to prevent unauthorized entry. The fence and gate must be constructed so as to prevent a child from climbing over or crawling underneath; or
2. A lockable cover as per Manitoba Building Code and/or applicable provincial regulations.

If you will need to cross Town property for the installation of your pool, hot tub, or water feature, you will need to sign an agreement for Access Over Town Property. (A copy of this agreement can be provided upon request.)

(Permits are not required to be renewed on an annual basis, however, property owners must continue to comply with the Town’s Zoning Bylaw for setbacks and the Manitoba Building Code for the required enclosures.)

1. Fill out a permit application (Residential Accessory Permit Template) and as part of the application, submit a site plan (Site Plan Example) that indicates the size and configuration of existing and proposed structures (including pool equipment and/or compressor) on the property as well as the setbacks (in feet) from the property lines.
   As part of the permit application, you will also need to advise whether or not you require access over Town property for the installation of your pool, hot tub, or water feature.
2. If you will be installing a deck (over 24 inches) or any other infrastructure such as a change house or shed, you will also need to include this information in your permit application.

3. A Town Building Inspector will review your permit application and Town Staff will advise you once the permit has been processed and is ready to be paid for/picked up from the Town Office, 329 Bronstone Drive.
   If you require the Access over Town Property agreement, you will need to sign the agreement and provide a damage deposit of $1,000.00. You will then need to meet with Town Staff on-site before any work commences. Inspection fees will apply.
4. Once the enclosure is built, you will need to contact the Town’s Building Inspector to have it inspected.
5. Upon final approval of the enclosure, the water feature may be filled with water.
6. If you had an Access over Town Property agreement, you will need to complete any required restoration and then contact Town Staff for a site inspection. Damage deposit less any deductions for failure to restore the area as required will be returned to the permit holder.
7. For information on draining your pool, email Ryan@whereyoubelong.ca