How can I build a swimming pool?

Building a private swimming pool is a lifelong dream for many property owners in Greece. Particularly during the summer months, the ability to enjoy the coolness and privacy of a personal swimming pool in your garden or yard offers a significant qualitative upgrade to everyday life and increases the value of the property. However, as with any construction intervention, Greek legislation clearly defines the conditions and permits required, depending on the form, size, and installation method.

When is a Small-Scale Building Permit Required?

This option is available for owners who wish to install a swimming pool of up to 50 square meters, without permanent or heavy structural intervention. In this case, the current legislation states that a small-scale license is required. This is a more straightforward and faster procedure than the full building permit. However, it is still mandatory if the pool, although not exceeding 50 square metres in size, is permanently installed and requires mechanical installation.

The Conditions

The legislation lays down specific conditions for the pool to fall into this category: Its height must not exceed one metre above the natural ground level at any point, and the excavation or backfill required for its installation must not exceed 1.5 metres. Additionally, the pool must be serviced by external compact-type mechanical systems, and the required planting in the designated open space must be maintained in accordance with regulations. At the same time, the application must be accompanied by a solemn declaration from an engineer certifying that he is responsible for the structural and electromechanical safety of the structure.

Importantly, if the construction includes a concrete foundation (reinforced concrete), the project no longer qualifies for a small-scale permit and instead follows the standard building permit process.

When is a Large-Scale Permit Required?

If the desired pool exceeds 50 square meters or requires building construction using reinforced concrete, retaining walls, deep excavations, or serious building interventions in general, a large-scale building permit is required. This procedure is more demanding, as it requires a complete file that includes architectural plans, structural studies, topographic diagrams, and all necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.

How is the Permit Issued?

The permit is issued by a civil engineer through the relevant online platform, and the progress of the project is supervised and fully documented. This procedure is necessary whenever the construction of the pool significantly alters the terrain's morphology or when it is integrated into large-scale construction projects.

It is essential to clarify that the construction of a swimming pool is not permitted without any authorisation whatsoever, even if it is a small reservoir. The legislation is clear and strict about permanent installations, regardless of size. The only types of pools that do not require approval are those that are completely temporary, such as inflatable or prefabricated metal pools, which are not structurally integrated into the property and do not have drainage systems, filters, or water purification systems.

What Else Should You Know?

Finally, it is worth noting that apart from the technical requirements, it is equally important to check the legal framework of the area in which the property is located. In general, the construction of a pool is permitted in most areas; however, there are specific locations, such as environmental protection zones, traditional settlements, or coastal areas, where the construction of swimming pools is restricted or prohibited. Therefore, working with an experienced engineer is essential to ensure that the project is fully legal and technically safe.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice of the appropriate permit depends mainly on the size, type, and method of construction. If you are planning to install a pool on your property, the first step is to consult a civil engineer who will evaluate your case and guide you step-by-step through obtaining the appropriate permit. The construction of a swimming pool requires a technical inspection and compliance with current urban planning regulations to proceed legally and without issues.