Permitting process for adding a hot tub in Stroudsburg Borough (Penn Estates / East Stroudsburg)
Installing a hot tub in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, involves several specific steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:
1. Research Local Regulations
Before initiating your hot tub installation, it's crucial to understand the local building and zoning requirements. In East Stroudsburg, both indoor and outdoor hot tubs have distinct permit necessities:
Indoor Hot Tubs: Require a Building Permit (BP).
Outdoor Hot Tubs: Require both a Zoning Permit (ZP) and a Building Permit (BP).
These permits ensure that your installation meets the 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and other relevant standards.
2. Prepare and Submit Permit Applications
To obtain the necessary permits, follow these steps:
Building Permit Application:
Complete the Building Permit Application form.
Provide two sets of detailed plans outlining materials, sizes, and specifications.
Include the manufacturer's installation instructions.
If zoning approval is necessary because you’re installing the hot tub outside, you’ll need to apply for that as well.
Zoning Permit Application:
Complete the Zoning Permit Application form.
Provide a site plan indicating the proposed location of the hot tub, ensuring compliance with setback requirements and other zoning regulations.
Forms and additional information are available on the Stroudsburg Borough's official website.
3. Schedule Inspections
After submitting your applications, the Building Code Department will review your plans. Once approved, inspections will be scheduled at various stages of the installation to ensure compliance with safety and building codes. It's essential to coordinate with licensed professionals for electrical and plumbing work, as improper installations can lead to safety hazards.
4. Final Approval
Upon successful completion of all inspections, a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) will be issued, signifying that your hot tub installation meets all local codes and is safe for use.
Additional Considerations
Homeowners Association (HOA) Regulations: If your property is part of an HOA, review their bylaws for any additional requirements or restrictions related to hot tub installations. If your home is in Penn Estates, you’ll need an additional building permit from them. Here are the rules and regulations they list as necessary for approval on that application.
1) Permits are required from the municipality and association.
2) Pools must be installed in accordance with Township ordinances and association regulations.3) The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a pool permit once all requirements are met and township permits approved.
4) All pools and hot tubs shall be constructed in the rear of dwellings only.
5) No pool or hot tub water whatsoever may be discharged into the community sewer system, swales, or allowed to flow onto any adjacent residential lots. As per PaDEP regulations, water shall be neutralized before draining occurs.