Just completed our second summer with our pool in Brampton. The installation process in 2024 was more complex than expected - particularly the permit requirements. Sharing everything for Ontario homeowners considering a pool.
Our Pool
Vinyl liner, 16x32 ft with 8 ft step end, 8-ft depth at deep end. Natural gas heater (Pentair MasterTemp 300), salt chlorine generator, Hayward variable-speed pump, LED lights.
The Permit Gauntlet in Brampton
We needed:
- Building permit from Brampton building department: $1,850
- Electrical permit: $280
- Grading compliance letter from an engineer: $1,100 (required in Brampton to confirm pool drainage direction)
- Pool fence enclosure inspection: required before first fill
Total permit fees and compliance: $3,230. This was more than our contractor quoted in their all-in price - they missed the engineering letter requirement.
Fencing Requirement
Brampton requires 1.5m (5 ft) pool enclosure fence (stricter than the OBC minimum 1.2m). Our existing fence was only 1.5m on two sides - the other two sides of the pool area required new fence sections. Added $2,800 to project.
Final Cost Breakdown
Pool shell, liner, and excavation: $38,000
Pool deck (exposed aggregate concrete, 450 sq ft): $12,800
Heater, pump, salt system, lighting: $8,400
Permits and engineering: $3,230
Fence additions: $2,800
Landscaping restoration: $2,200
Total: $67,430
Operating Costs Year 2
Salt/chemicals: $480
Gas (heater, Apr-Oct): $1,240
Electricity (variable-speed pump): $380
Opening/closing service: $520
Total: $2,620/year
Worth It?
In our household with three kids and a social family, 100% yes. We used it from May 15 to October 10 last year.