Inground Pool Zoning and Permit Laws: Carmel, Indiana

Each year, we at Perma Pools install many in ground pools in Carmel, Indiana.  Because the permitting process in this city can be confusing, it’s important that you understand what the zoning and permit requirement are.

Carmel, Indiana In ground Pool Setback Requirements

Building Setbacks from property lines: vary by zoning district and are often not shown on plot plan; these generally range from 10-30′.

Setbacks because of easements: review plat plan; generally shown.  these include drainage, utility and other easements that restrict where a pool can be constructed on a property; Carmel has a special buffer rule that requires a pool be located an additional 3 feet outside of drainage easements

Setbacks from gas and electric meters-generally 3-4′

Setbacks from septic: 10’ from tank and absorbtion field

To apply for the appropriate pool permits you will need to first obtain a right of way permit from the Engineering Department requiring you to submit the appropriate applications and a site plan of your project.

Once the right of way permit is approved, you file the approved plot plan and building permit application with the Planning Department with 2 sets of pool plans/specs.  A Carmel, Indiana inground pool requires at least these permits/approvals:  Access Permit and Building Permit

Lead time from application to permit issuance depends on backlog.    The access permit takes 2-3 days if your access is on a driveway and 5-10 days if the access is otherwise and conditions may then apply. The building permit takes about 5-10 days.

Special permit rules:  If you do a sand filter, you apparently have to tie into the sanitary sewer for the discharge so most people just do a cartridge filter.  If you are working near a drainage easment a silt fence may be required.  The pool equipment must be located at least 10 feet from a property line.

Carmel, Indiana is very helpful to get permits for inground pools but the requirements are confusing and the requirement of filing with 2 offices (Engineering and Planning) is awkward and so generally a permit service can be helpful.

Costs of Permits:  Approximately $700, and watch out, a plan modification can cost another $150 per modification so get ir right the first time!

Furthermore,  a bond must be posted with the City in order to pull permits. 

Questions regarding your pool permit in Carmel, Indiana? Don’t hesitate to contact us directly at 317-782-9956.