Natural swimming pools are still relatively new to most parts of Canada. While they have been popular elsewhere for decades, Canadian homeowners and municipalities are only beginning to explore what these chlorine-free, eco-friendly pools can offer. This has created something of a “Wild West” situation when it comes to regulations and bylaws. Unlike traditional pools, which are clearly defined by building codes and municipal rules, natural pools often sit in a grey area. Are they ponds, or are they pools? And what rules apply when they are built in private backyards or used in public spaces?
Understanding the legal and regulatory landscape is essential for anyone considering a natural swimming pool. Not only does this ensure the project complies with local bylaws, it also helps avoid costly delays or disputes. In this article, we will explore how municipalities classify natural pools, what bylaws typically apply, and how public and semi-public uses are being approached in Canada.
The Pond vs. Pool Debate
The first challenge in regulating natural swimming pools comes down to how they are classified. On one hand, they look very similar to backyard ponds. They often have plants, a natural shape, and no chemical treatment. On the other hand, they are clearly designed for swimming, which would place them in the same category as conventional pools.
Some municipalities automatically treat them as swimming pools for bylaw purposes. That means fencing, safety barriers, and permit requirements all apply, regardless of the fact that the water is kept clean through natural filtration rather than chlorine. Other municipalities may not have a clear definition in place, which can leave homeowners uncertain about what is required.
For now, the safest assumption for private property owners is that a natural swimming pool will be classified as a swimming pool under local bylaws. That means fencing requirements, setbacks from property lines, and electrical code compliance must all be considered during planning.
Municipal Bylaws and Private Use
Across Canada, most municipalities require permits for pool construction. These permits ensure that safety measures are in place and that the design meets building code standards. In Ontario, for example, most municipalities require any pool with water deeper than 24 inches to be enclosed by a fence that meets minimum height and locking requirements. Whether your pool is chlorine-based or completely natural, the same rule generally applies.
This means that if you are building a natural swimming pool on private property, you should expect to follow the same process as if you were building a conventional pool. You will likely need a permit, a fencing plan, and inspections for electrical work. Some municipalities may still use the term “pond” in their bylaws, but if the project is intended for swimming, it will usually be treated as a pool in practice.
The grey area often comes with the aesthetic of natural pools. To the untrained eye, they may resemble ornamental ponds. Homeowners should not assume that calling a project a “pond” will exempt it from pool bylaws. The intended use is what matters most.
Safety and Fencing Rules
Fencing is one of the most important regulatory considerations for natural pools in Canada. Most municipalities have strict rules requiring barriers around any swimming pool, with very few exceptions. These rules exist to prevent accidental drownings, particularly involving children.
Even if a natural pool looks more like a landscaped pond, if it is used for swimming it will almost certainly need to be enclosed by a code-compliant fence. This can feel at odds with the natural aesthetic many homeowners want, but modern design solutions can integrate fencing in subtle ways. Decorative fencing, plantings, and stonework can help blend the barrier into the landscape while still meeting legal requirements.
Electrical safety is another area where regulations come into play. Because natural pools use pumps, circulation systems, and sometimes supplemental UV or ozone systems, all electrical work must comply with the Canadian Electrical Code. This includes ground fault protection and proper installation by licensed electricians.
Public and Semi-Public Natural Pools
Private backyard pools are one thing, but what about natural swimming pools intended for public or semi-public use, such as campgrounds, resorts, or community recreation areas? Here, the rules become even more complicated.
In most provinces, public swimming pools are regulated by public health authorities. These rules are written with conventional pools in mind, requiring disinfection through chlorine or other chemical means. Because natural pools do not use chlorine, they do not fit neatly into these regulations. As a result, most public health departments do not yet have specific guidelines for natural pools.
Despite this, there has been progress. A high-profile example is the public natural swimming pool in Edmonton, Alberta. Opened in 2018, it was the first public facility of its kind in Canada. The project required close collaboration between designers, health officials, and regulators to establish protocols for water quality, safety, and maintenance. The Edmonton pool uses biological filtration combined with ultraviolet treatment to meet public health standards.
This facility shows that natural pools can be adapted for public use in Canada, but it also highlights the complexity involved. Every province has its own health regulations, and until more standardized frameworks exist, public or semi-public natural pools will require extensive consultation and case-by-case approval.
Are Natural Pools Allowed in Campgrounds or Resorts?
The short answer is yes, but with significant conditions. Private campgrounds or resorts that want to build natural swimming pools must work closely with local public health authorities to demonstrate that water quality can be maintained at safe levels. Because conventional rules assume chlorine treatment, proving that a natural system is just as effective requires additional testing and oversight.
Some operators choose to classify their natural pool as a “pond” or “lake” if it is large and open, but this can introduce liability issues if the pool is actively promoted as a swimming facility. For businesses, the safest path is to pursue approvals under the category of swimming pools, even if that requires additional design considerations.
Lessons for Homeowners
For private property owners, the takeaway is clear. While bylaws and building codes may not specifically mention “natural swimming pools,” these projects are almost always treated as pools under local rules. That means:
- You will likely need a building permit.
- You will need to install a compliant fence or barrier.
- Electrical components must meet code.
- You should be prepared for inspections.
The good news is that once built, natural pools function beautifully within these rules. They provide the same safety and security as conventional pools, with the added benefit of chemical-free water and a natural aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fence around my natural swimming pool?
Yes. In nearly all Canadian municipalities, any pool deeper than 24 inches requires a fence or barrier that meets specific height and gate requirements. This applies to natural swimming pools just as it does to conventional ones.
How do municipalities classify them?
Most municipalities classify natural swimming pools as pools rather than ponds, especially when they are clearly intended for swimming. The classification is based on use, not appearance.
Are natural pools allowed in public spaces like campgrounds?
Yes, but approvals are complex. Public and semi-public pools must meet provincial health regulations, which are generally written for chlorine pools. Natural pool projects in these settings require collaboration with health officials to prove water quality and safety standards can be met.
Navigating the Grey Areas
As natural swimming pools become more common in Canada, municipalities and provinces will eventually adapt regulations to account for their unique features. Until then, homeowners and businesses must navigate existing bylaws with care. The classification debates may feel confusing, but working with experienced designers and local authorities ensures that projects move forward smoothly and legally. If you are considering building a natural pool, it is worth consulting experts who understand both the design and the regulatory side of the process. Book a consultation with our team to ensure your project meets all local codes, and move forward with confidence knowing your pool will be safe, compliant, and built to last.