English speakers living in France or overseas should read this post. When it comes to building an infinity pool, it is essential to understand how it differs from a regular pool.
Features of an infinity pool
It is necessary to add masonry structures, a surge tank and a channel to these pools where the water partially or totally spills over. They should be considered when calculating the footprint of the pool. In a zero-edge pool, where the water level is at the same level as the pool deck, the gutters are concealed. The water flowing from these gutters is collected in a balance tank or surge tank.
In a pool with a trickling overflow or waterfall, the gutter, placed below the water line, can be used as a surge tank. The use of a prefabricated water tank is also possible in a mini pool.
Is the land suitable for building a pool?
Whether built in reinforced concrete, shotcrete, shuttering blocks, or masonry, this question applies to all semi-submerged or in-ground pools. Pool kits and polyester shell pools must comply with the same regulations. There are special rules that must be followed when installing an above-ground pool.
Land must be located in a building zone (classified as UA or U) according to the Local Urban Plan (PLU), which is available at the town hall of the construction site. Ensure that there is no rainwater network at the site where the pool is to be constructed.
In protected areas, the rules differ. Furthermore, many municipalities prohibit the use of blue colored pool linings (liners, reinforced membranes, mosaics, coatings, etc.).
There are numerous small municipalities that do not have a PLU. As a result, we indicate the general rules.
Formalities for the construction of an infinity pool and a deck level pool
A regular pool with skimmers or an overflow pool must comply with the same formalities. For most private pools, a declaration of works to the town planning department is sufficient. There are, however, exceptions depending on the length of the installation or the size of the pool. Water volume is never considered.
It is imperative to note that many municipalities do not have a PLU. As a result, we provide a summary of the general rules.
Formalities are not required for these pools:
- In-ground pools with a water surface area of less than 10 m2. It is for this reason that the popularity of small pools is on the rise.
- Regardless of the surface of water, all above-ground pools that can be disassembled and are installed for a period of less than three months should be considered.
Spillover pools requiring prior declaration
The majority of overflow pools require a prior declaration. The water surface of the pool must be between 10 and 100 m2. This includes the submerged deck, a possible paddling pool and the channels to collect the water from the weirs. It is anticipated that the surface of the pool will be increased by the water surface of a jacuzzi spilling over into it.
Preliminary declarations are subject to a one-month instruction period. It is not permitted to erect forms or make pickaxe blows during this period.
Pools with a building permit requirement
In order to construct a swimming pool larger than 100 square meters, a building permit is required.
The PC’s file will be studied for two months, during which time no work will be performed, not even earthwork.
An indoor swimming pool with an overflow
Regulations vary according to the type of building in which the pool will be installed
If the building where the swimming lane will be installed is smaller than 20 square meters, prior permission is not required. Building permits are required beyond this area.
In contrast, if the infinity pool is constructed in an existing building, a simple declaration of works is sufficient.
Indoor pools are rarely free-form, and a mirror-effect overflow is highly recommended. At the level of the coping, a peripheral slot allows the flow of water. The chlorine-free water treatment and counter-current swimming system of a rectangular concrete pool bring a lot of comfort to swimmers and bathers.
Around the infinity pool
Decks and pool copings are not usually raised or supported by foundations. Thus, they are exempt from declaring works, but must still follow the town planning regulations.
The construction of a plant room, whether buried or above ground, with a height of less than 1,80 m does not require any formalities. Above this height, or if its surface exceeds 20 m2, a prior declaration or a building permit must be submitted. Similar rules apply to the construction of a pool house.
Pool shelters constructed over existing pools are exempt from formalities if their height does not exceed 1.80 meters. A prior declaration is required for heights over this limit.
It is imperative to note that if the surface area of the wooden or tiled terrace covered by the shelter exceeds 20 square meters, a building permit will be requested. The construction of pool shelters with a height of more than 1.80 meters and installed at the same time as the pool will also require a PC.
Work must be declared complete upon completion
The construction of a negative edge pool or zero-edge pool requires prior formalities; however, there are other requirements. In-ground or semi-in-ground pools must be declared finished within 30 days after the end of construction. The town hall has three months to confirm whether the project and the completed work are in conformity.
The certificate of conformity must also be requested for polyester shell pools, concrete monocoque pools, wooden pools, and stainless-steel pools.
It is the responsibility of the beneficiary of the PC or DP, typically the owner of the pool, to make this declaration. This process can be assisted by the pool builder or the pool manufacturer, if necessary.
Overflow pools must be declared to the tax authorities
An infinity pool is a beautiful addition to any backyard, offering a wide variety of benefits: the ability to swim at any time, enjoy the Zen effect of a zero-edge pool, and share with friends the aesthetic appeal of a clean water line that blends with the horizon. It also involves paying taxes.
In-ground pools that require masonry work or cannot be removed without destroying or damaging them are subject to “Taxe Foncière”. It could also be a semi-sunken swimming pool, a concrete shell, a stainless-steel swimming pool, or even an above ground reinforced concrete pool.
It is necessary to make the declaration to the tax authorities within 90 days after the completion of the construction or renovation of the in-ground or above-ground pool. This condition may exempt the “Taxe Foncière” for two years. Luxury pools with spillovers will not be taxed more than pools with skimmers of the same size.
The tax authorities can detect fraudulent people using aerial or satellite photographs.
Where would be the ideal place to build an overflow pool?
Between the town planning rules and your wishes, it is not always easy to choose the most suitable location for the pool of your dreams.
Morana Conseils is here to help you. The plan of the land and photographs of the environment are used to create a preliminary plan that considers aesthetic and technical parameters. Their expertise also allows them to complete all the plans for the construction of reinforced concrete pools. As part of their services, they also provide drawings for the installation of the pool piping and the filtration system.
A review of the regulations governing the construction of an overflow pool is required before any excavation. Depending on your location, these regulations may differ. In addition, it is critical to develop a pool plan before construction begins. All the work will be guided by this document.
In this perspective, Morana Conseils offers you an individualized approach to help you realize your vision and to achieve your goals.
