Dreaming of a backyard pool for Franklin summers? Before you pick tile and lounge chairs, the smartest move is to map out permits, setbacks, utilities and safety from the start. You want a smooth build, no surprise delays, and a safe space for family and friends. In this guide, you will learn who to call, what to submit, and how to keep your project on track from concept to final inspection. Let’s dive in.
Who handles permits in Franklin
If your property is inside Franklin city limits, the City of Franklin Development Services and Building & Codes Division handles permits, plan reviews and inspections. Zoning rules come from the City’s zoning ordinance or Unified Development Code. If you are in unincorporated Williamson County, contact the Williamson County Planning & Codes office. Start by confirming your jurisdiction so you follow the right process.
You also need to coordinate utility locates and easements. Dial 811 to request underground utility markings before any excavation. Connect with local electric, gas, water and sewer providers if you have questions about overhead lines, transformers or easement restrictions.
Most technical safety rules for residential pools come from adopted model codes. The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and the International Residential Code set many barrier and safety standards. The National Electrical Code governs bonding, grounding and GFCI protection. Your HOA, if you have one, may add design and placement rules that you must follow in addition to city or county code.
Permits and approvals: step by step
A clean sequence saves time and money. Get approvals that affect location first so you are not redrawing plans later.
1) Preliminary checks
- Confirm whether your home is in the City of Franklin or unincorporated Williamson County.
- Gather your current property survey or plat that shows property lines, dimensions and easements. Order a new survey if needed.
- Review your HOA’s CC&Rs and contact the design review board to learn the submittal requirements and meeting schedule.
- Call 811 for utility locates. Ask utility providers about overhead lines, transformers, and any rules about building near or over easements.
Timeline: a few days to 1 to 2 weeks.
2) Concept and plan development
- Choose your pool type: in-ground concrete, fiberglass, vinyl liner or above-ground. Your choice affects structure, plumbing and permitting.
- Hire a licensed pool contractor or design professional. Contractors typically prepare permit-ready plans that include a site plan, pool dimensions, equipment location, electrical plan and fence or barrier details.
- Check impervious surface and stormwater rules. A pool plus decking can change lot coverage and may trigger erosion or drainage measures.
Timeline: about 1 to 2 weeks for planning and plan prep.
3) HOA approval (if applicable)
Many HOAs require approval before you apply for municipal permits. Typical packages include the site plan, elevations, fencing and gate details, and any landscape screening.
Timeline: often 2 to 6 weeks depending on meeting cadence.
4) Permit application to the City or County
Expect to submit:
- Building permit application
- Scaled site plan showing the home, pool, decks, and distances to property lines and easements
- Pool construction plans with structural details and plumbing layout
- Electrical plans with pump, heater, lighting and bonding details
- Fence or barrier plan with height, type, gates and latch locations
- Contractor license and insurance
- Grading or erosion control plan if land disturbance thresholds apply
Review periods vary. Simple reviews can take 1 to 3 weeks. Reviews that involve multiple departments or variances can take longer.
5) Inspections during construction
Your contractor will schedule required inspections. Common checks include:
- Trench, footing or pre-plumbing inspection before backfill
- Electrical rough to verify bonding, conduit, wiring and GFCI protection
- Equipment pad and final mechanical and electrical inspections
- Fence or barrier inspection to verify height, openings and self-closing, self-latching gates
- Final inspection or certificate of completion
6) Final approvals
After you pass final inspections, you will receive the sign-off or certificate of completion. Some HOAs may ask for an as-built submission.
Setbacks and easements: what to check
Zoning setbacks and lot coverage
Pool placement must meet the City’s zoning ordinance or the County’s rules. Pools are usually treated as accessory structures. Many districts allow pools in rear yards with minimum side and rear setbacks that commonly range from 5 to 10 feet. Front yard placement is often limited or not allowed. If you cannot meet a required setback, you may need a variance, which adds time and process.
Also watch lot coverage and impervious surface limits. Your pool, decking and hardscape may change your percentage. Confirm the maximum allowed coverage for your zoning district before finalizing the plan.
Easements and underground utilities
You generally cannot build a pool or place permanent pool equipment over a utility or drainage easement. Check for:
- Public utility easements for electric, gas and communications
- Drainage or stormwater easements
- Sanitary sewer mains or laterals
Always request locates through 811 before digging. If you have overhead lines, maintain safe clearances and contact your electric provider if your design brings features near those lines.
Septic systems and drainage
If your home has a septic system, protect the tank and drain field. Pools should maintain required separation from septic components. If you are unsure, consult the County health department or a septic designer before you commit to a layout. Discuss stormwater and drainage routes early, especially if your project includes large patios or grade changes.
HOA coordination and variances
HOAs often have rules about fence materials and height, gate style, equipment screening and even colors. Many require formal approval before you pull permits. If your ideal layout conflicts with setbacks or easements, ask planning staff about variance or easement vacation options. These steps involve public processes and add time, so budget accordingly.
Safety and code essentials
Barriers and gates
Residential pools must have a compliant barrier to reduce child access. Local code based on model standards typically requires a minimum fence height around 4 feet, limited openings that a child cannot pass through, and gates that self-close and self-latch with latches placed out of reach. Some homes also need door alarms or added safeguards if a door opens directly to the pool area. Your plan set should show all barrier details for review.
Electrical and bonding
Pool electrical work must meet National Electrical Code requirements. Expect GFCI protection for pool circuits, proper bonding of metal components and rebar, grounded equipment, and correct wiring for pumps, heaters and lighting. Licensed electricians should perform this work. In many cases, a separate electrical permit and inspections are required.
Drains and entrapment protection
Approved drain covers and entrapment protection reduce suction hazards. Many residential pools use multiple main drains or safety systems that comply with current standards. Your contractor should document compliant drain covers and safety measures on the plans and during final inspection.
Inspections: what inspectors look for
Inspectors verify that the pool matches the approved site plan and maintains required distances from property lines and utilities. They check plumbing materials and slopes, structural elements for in-ground pools, electrical bonding and GFCI protection, barrier height and gate operation, and the presence of approved drain covers. Do not backfill or cover work until the required inspections are passed.
Timeline at a glance
While every site is different, many projects follow this general window:
- Preliminary checks, HOA engagement and contractor selection: 2 to 6 weeks
- Permit prep and submittal package: 1 to 2 weeks
- Plan review and permit approval: 2 to 6 weeks, longer if variances or stormwater reviews apply
- Construction and inspections: 2 to 8 weeks based on pool type and scope
From first concept to completion, plan for roughly 6 to 16 weeks or more.
Practical checklist
Use this quick list to stay organized and avoid do-overs:
- Get a current property survey that shows lines and easements.
- Review HOA CC&Rs and contact the design review board early.
- Call 811 for utility locates, then confirm easement restrictions with utility providers.
- Hire a licensed pool contractor to prepare permit-ready plans.
- Confirm zoning setbacks and impervious coverage with the City of Franklin or Williamson County.
- Ask if grading or erosion control permits apply for your land disturbance.
- Secure HOA approval before you submit for municipal permits.
- Submit your permit package including site plan, structural, electrical and barrier details.
- Schedule inspections at each phase. Do not backfill until you pass the required checks.
- Collect final approvals and any certificates.
Common delays and cost drivers
- HOA timelines or design changes required by the board
- Utility or easement conflicts that force a redesign
- Rock, high water table or other site conditions that affect excavation
- Stormwater or impervious coverage triggers that add drainage work
- Setback conflicts that require variances and public hearings
Your next step
A well-planned pool adds lifestyle and long-term value when it is placed correctly, permitted cleanly and built to code. Start with your survey and HOA rules, verify setbacks and easements, and build a complete plan set so reviews go faster. During construction, keep inspections on schedule and confirm barrier, electrical and drain safety before you fill.
If you want a second set of eyes on how a pool could impact resale, design choices and neighborhood fit, reach out. I bring design training and builder experience to help you weigh placement, materials and long-term value in Franklin. Ready to talk through your lot and timeline? Unknown Company can guide your next move.
FAQs
Do you need a permit for a pool in Franklin?
- Yes. Building and electrical permits are typically required inside Franklin city limits, and inspections are part of the process. If you are outside city limits, work with Williamson County Planning & Codes.
How close can a pool be to the property line in Franklin?
- Setbacks vary by zoning district. Many rear-yard pools must stay a minimum distance, often 5 to 10 feet from property lines. Confirm your exact setback in the City zoning ordinance or Unified Development Code.
Can you build a pool over a utility or drainage easement?
- Generally no. Pools and permanent equipment are usually prohibited in easements. Verify easements on your survey and confirm any restrictions with the utility providers before you finalize the layout.
What inspections happen during pool construction in Franklin?
- Expect rough plumbing or footing checks, electrical bonding and GFCI inspections, equipment pad inspection, barrier and gate inspection, and a final sign-off or certificate of completion.
What safety barriers does a residential pool need?
- A compliant barrier is required. Typical standards include a minimum fence height around 4 feet, limited openings, and self-closing, self-latching gates. Doors that open to the pool area may need alarms or added safeguards.
Who calls 811 for utility locates before digging a pool?
- The homeowner or the contractor can request locates by dialing 811. Pool contractors commonly coordinate the request as part of site preparation.
How long does pool permitting take in Franklin?
- Reviews can take 2 to 6 weeks for many projects, with more time if multiple departments or variances are involved. HOA reviews and plan preparation add to the total timeline.
