Corsica, with its Mediterranean climate and picturesque landscapes, is an ideal place to enjoy a private swimming pool. However, as in the rest of France, the construction and use of a swimming pool in Corsica are subject to specific regulations. This guide aims to inform Corsican property owners about the legal and safety aspects to consider for their pool.
Declaration and Building Permits
Before starting the construction of your pool, it's essential to understand the necessary administrative procedures.
For pools less than 10 m²: A prior declaration of works is only necessary if your land is located in one of the following areas: perimeter of a heritage site, vicinity of a historical monument, protected sector, classified site or site in the process of classification. In other cases, no formality is required [1].
For pools over 10 m² and up to 100 m²: A prior declaration of works is mandatory [1].
For pools over 100 m²: A building permit is necessary [1].
It's important to note that these rules may vary depending on the municipality. For example, in Ajaccio, the Local Urban Plan (PLU) may impose additional restrictions on pool placement [2]. It is therefore recommended to check with your local town hall before starting any project.
Safety Standards
Safety is a crucial aspect of pool regulations. Since 2004, French law has required safety measures for all in-ground or semi-in-ground private pools for individual or collective use [3].
Owners must equip their pool with at least one of the following four standardized safety devices:
a) Protective barrier (NF P 90-306 standard) b) Safety cover (NF P 90-308 standard) c) Pool shelter (NF P 90-309 standard) d) Pool alarm (NF P 90-307-1 standard)
Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable by a fine of 45,000 euros [3].
Water Quality
The water quality of private pools is not subject to mandatory controls as is the case for public pools. However, it is strongly recommended to follow the standards established for public pools to ensure the safety of swimmers [4].
The main parameters to monitor are:
pH: ideally between 7.2 and 7.6
Chlorine level: between 0.4 and 1.4 mg/L for free chlorine and maximum 0.6 mg/L for combined chlorine
Temperature: should not exceed 30°C to limit bacterial proliferation
Water Management in Corsica
As Corsica is an island, water management is particularly important. The Sustainable Development and Planning Plan of Corsica (PADDUC) emphasizes the importance of sustainable water management [5].
For pool owners, this implies:
Using efficient filtration systems to limit water renewal
Rainwater harvesting for pool filling when possible
Using covers to limit evaporation
Environmental Regulations
In Corsica, environmental protection is a major concern. The Environmental Code applies, with specificities related to the island's particular status [6].
For pools, this translates into:
The prohibition of discharging pool water directly into the natural environment
The obligation to treat water before any discharge into the sewage system
Encouragement to use energy-efficient heating and filtration systems
Taxation
The construction of a pool can have tax implications. Indeed, a pool can increase the rental value of your property and therefore impact your local taxes [7].
Property tax: The pool is taken into account in calculating the rental value of the property
Development tax: It applies to pools over 10 m²
Insurance
Although not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to include your pool in your home insurance contract. This can cover damage to the pool itself, as well as accidents that could occur there.
Specific Regulations for Co-owned Properties
If you live in a co-owned property, the construction of a private pool may be subject to additional rules. It is necessary to consult the co-ownership regulations and obtain the agreement of the general assembly of co-owners before undertaking any project [8].
Accessibility for People with Reduced Mobility
Although not mandatory for private pools, accessibility for people with reduced mobility is a point to consider. The law of February 11, 2005, for equal rights and opportunities encourages the accessibility of facilities, including swimming pools [9].
Conclusion
The regulation of swimming pools in Corsica aims to ensure the safety of users while preserving the unique environment of the island. As an owner, it is crucial to comply with these rules to fully enjoy your pool with peace of mind. Don't hesitate to consult local professionals, such as Karlson Piscines, to ensure that your project complies with all current regulations.
Sources :
[1] Service Public, "Piscine privée", https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F31404
[2] Ville d'Ajaccio, "Plan Local d'Urbanisme", https://ajaccio.corsica/plan-local-durbanisme/
[3] Légifrance, "Loi n° 2003-9 du 3 janvier 2003 relative à la sécurité des piscines", https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000000776783
[4] Légifrance, "Arrêté du 26 mai 2021 relatif au contrôle sanitaire et à la surveillance des eaux de piscine", https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000043535364
[5] Collectivité de Corse, "PADDUC", https://www.isula.corsica/Le-PADDUC-dans-son-integralite_a1879.html
[6] Légifrance, "Code de l'environnement", https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/texte_lc/LEGITEXT000006074220/
[7] Direction générale des Finances publiques, "Taxe foncière", https://www.impots.gouv.fr/particulier/questions/jinstalle-une-piscine-y-t-il-une-incidence-sur-mes-impots-locaux
[8] Légifrance, "Loi n° 65-557 du 10 juillet 1965 fixant le statut de la copropriété des immeubles bâtis", https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000000880200/ [9] Légifrance, "Loi n° 2005-102 du 11 février 2005 pour l'égalité des droits et des chances", https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000000809647/