Do I need a permit to build a pool in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, pools deeper than 1.2 meters require a permit from the municipality. Smaller and shallower pools may not require a permit but must still comply with safety standards in all cases.

What are the safety standards required for pools in Saudi Arabia?

A 1.2-meter safety fence with a self-closing gate, non-slip tiles, a pool cover, an anti-entrapment drain system, and adequate lighting around the pool.

How long does the permit process take?

Usually 2-4 weeks from application submission to receiving the permit. A specialized contractor handles the entire process.

Pool Permits in Saudi Arabia — When Do You Need One?

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Pool in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, building a private pool in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia requires a permit from the relevant municipality (Amanah) in most cases. Pools deeper than 1.2 meters require an official permit. Even smaller pools must comply with safety standards.

Mandatory Safety Standards

All private pools in Saudi Arabia must comply with the following standards:

✓ Safety Fence: At least 1.2 meters high around the entire pool

✓ Self-Closing Gate: With a lock placed out of children's reach

✓ Non-Slip Tiles: On pool edges and the surrounding area

✓ Pool Cover: Sturdy enough to support a child's weight for protection when not in use

✓ Anti-Entrapment Drain System: Prevents suction accidents at drain openings

✓ Adequate Lighting: Surrounding and underwater lighting for nighttime use

✓ Electrical Connections: Per Saudi Building Code with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection

Where these requirements come from, and what you should verify yourself. The above reflects the practice we build to and the safety requirements commonly applied to private pools. But permit requirements are set at Amanah level, differ between municipalities, and change over time — there is no single published table that consolidates them.

So treat the above as planning guidance, not as a legal reference. The only authoritative source for your case is your own Amanah and the Balady platform. We handle the permit as part of the project and confirm your specific Amanah's requirements before work starts.

Documents Required for the Permit

Property Title Deed

A copy of the title deed proving the applicant is the property owner

Original Building Permit

The villa or house building permit issued by the municipality

Site Plan

A plan showing the pool's location relative to the building and neighbor boundaries

Engineering Drawings

Engineering plans for the pool including dimensions, depth, drainage, and electrical systems

Steps to Obtain the Permit

Prepare the Plans

The contractor or engineer prepares the required engineering plans per municipality requirements

Submit the Application

Submit the permit application online via the Balady platform or visit the municipality with the documents

Review and Approval

The municipality reviews the plans and verifies compliance with requirements (2-4 weeks)

Begin Construction

After receiving the permit, construction begins following the approved plans

Distance and Location Requirements

• Minimum 1.5 meters from neighbor boundaries

• Safe distance from building foundations (determined by engineer based on pool depth)

• No conflict with utility lines (water, electricity, sewage)

• Compliance with setback requirements in the urban plan

Drainage and Water Requirements

An independent drainage system for pool water must be provided, including:

• A municipality-approved drainage point

• No discharge of chlorine-treated water into the stormwater network

• An overflow equalization tank

• A water recycling system to conserve water resources

Responsible Authorities by City

City	Responsible Authority
Riyadh	Riyadh Region Municipality (Amanah)
Jeddah	Jeddah Governorate Municipality
Dammam	Eastern Province Municipality
Mecca	Holy Capital Municipality
Medina	Medina Region Municipality

* Applications can be submitted online via the "Balady" platform (balady.gov.sa) in most cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the contractor handle the permit process? ▼

Yes, the specialized contractor handles all permit procedures including preparing engineering plans, submitting the application, and following up on approval. This is part of the comprehensive service we provide.

What happens if a pool is built without a permit? ▼

Building a pool without a permit exposes you to financial penalties and you may be required to remove the pool. Non-compliance with safety standards also puts your family at risk and affects property insurance.

How much do permit fees cost? ▼

Municipal permit fees range from 500 to 2,000 SAR depending on the city and pool size. Engineering plan preparation fees (if not included in the contractor's contract) range from 2,000 to 5,000 SAR.

Pool Building Permits & Regulations in Saudi Arabia