City Guide · Verified 2026
Pool Construction Permits in Baton Rouge
Local Rule
City of Baton Rouge / East Baton Rouge Parish Department of Development
The city-parish code exempts a prefabricated pool accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy only if it is less than 24 inches deep, no more than 5,000 gallons, and installed entirely above ground; anything larger needs a permit. A real distinctive sequencing rule: if a new fence is proposed as the pool barrier, an approved fence permit must be obtained before the pool permit is issued. The city's own document explicitly clarifies that home alarm security systems do not meet the required water hazard entrance alarm standard (UL 2017) for windows under 48 inches sill height or doors giving direct pool access; electrical permit fees are bundled into the swimming pool permit fee itself.
Source · Verified September 2026
Baton Rouge Building Department
Office: City of Baton Rouge - Parish of East Baton Rouge, Permit & Inspection Division
Address: 300 N. 10th St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: (225) 389-3161
Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.
How This Compares to Louisiana Statewide
Louisiana has no county government, so there is no county-level rule to compare against. Here is what applies at the state level instead:
Any pool more than 24 inches deep requires a permit and a compliant safety barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates (IRC R326 / ISPSC). Prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep are exempt.
Nearby Cities with Verified Rules
Other cities near Baton Rouge with a confirmed pool construction rule:
FAQs
Which department handles Pool Construction permits in Baton Rouge?
City of Baton Rouge / East Baton Rouge Parish Department of Development handles Pool Construction permits in Baton Rouge.
Is Baton Rouge different from the rest of Louisiana on Pool Construction?
Yes. Baton Rouge's rule is "Depends on project scope", while Louisiana generally is "Permit required". See the full breakdown of each below.
Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need
Meeting the pool safety code? Barrier and safety gear homeowners rely on:
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