CALVERT COUNTY, Md. — As the recent heatwave drove people to public pools all over Maryland, some Calvert County residents are considering a longer-term solution — adding a pool to their own backyard. But Calvert locals should carefully review zoning and permit regulations before taking the plunge.
Calvert County has specific zoning requirements to consider before undertaking this project. Because Calvert maintains regulations in more than one area, residents have to be extra diligent when they plan projects and require permits.
These regulations are in place to maintain both the environmental health of the property and the personal health of the people on it. Like many regulations in the county, pool-building rules are meant to protect the unique, interconnected Calvert ecosystem. In an area that’s sensitive to agricultural runoff and flooding, land development has both short- and long-term consequences. Doing it safely is the top priority.
Environmental regulations require that a new swimming pool be set back 30 feet from a well, for both in-ground and above-ground pools. In-ground pools must be set back 25 feet from any part of the septic or sewage disposal area. Above-ground pools must be 10 feet from any part of the septic or sewage disposal area. Some properties with a well and/or septic systems may need an on-site review from the Environmental Health Division before being granted a permit.
Residents should also make sure their property isn’t part of a critical, architectural or historical area — the Critical Area Ordinance, for example, regulates land use and development within a 1,000-foot buffer of wetlands and tidal areas. So if your property is close to water, it’s vital to get this checked before proceeding with your permit application. If your property falls into any specialized categories, you’ll require a review from that department. Applicants will also be asked to acquire electrical permits, plumbing/gas permits, and sign a pool fence affidavit.
You can browse the full list of requirements to determine the next steps for your property.
Depending on the scope of the project and your property, taking these steps before beginning the project can help avoid fines and dealing with the appeal process. Fines can vary, but you may end up paying for several different violations. A floodplain violation, for example, is $500.
Calvert residents have access to a handful of public pools. Cove Point and King’s Landing are options in Calvert, and residents can pay out-of-county prices for the Great Mills pool in St. Mary’s County. Many residents take advantage of local beaches like Breezy Point.
In the thick of the heat, the county also put out a list of cooling centers on its website and social media pages that includes local libraries and community centers, and advised that getting inside to air conditioning may be the safest option when temperatures rise.
So if a personal pool is on your list, make sure to carefully review both county and municipal regulations, and contact zoning experts in your area. Permit applications can be found on the county website.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com