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Most municipalities require a building permit before you put up a pool house. Rules and fees vary widely depending on where you live and local regulations. Check with your local building department or general contractor early in your project so permit costs and timelines don’t catch you off guard.

If you’re building a custom pool house, the entire process will take two to three months from design to the end of construction, or as much as a year for very large or complex projects. Installing a prefabricated kit or shed is much faster, averaging one to three days.

A pool house is generally between 100 and 800 square feet, which reflects its intended functionality. A compact 100 to 150-square-foot space serves as storage or utility, while 300 square feet or more offers room for changing, relaxation, and socializing. Choose a size that meets your lifestyle needs.

The common types of pool houses include guesthouses, standard pool houses, and sheds. A guesthouse is a small lodge adjacent to the primary home with overnight accommodations and amenities. A standard pool house offers storage, changing facilities, and a relaxation zone. A shed is a simple structure for storing pool equipment and garden tools. Each serves a distinct purpose and enhances your outdoor living experience.

By incorporating essential living features, a pool house can be designed to serve as an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). When built with a dedicated kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, a pool house transitions into a fully functional ADU suitable for guests or tenants. This design expands living space and enhances property value by offering additional, independent accommodation that meets modern housing demands.