Government permit fees
Hillsborough County publishes its current permit fee schedules at hcfl.gov. Ask your contractor to list government fees separately from design and permit-handling charges.
Confirm the application and site information
For county-reviewed projects, applications go through HillsGovHub. The county requests a scaled site plan showing the proposed work, existing structures, boundaries, setbacks, easements and environmentally sensitive areas. See the [residential pool requirements](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists/residential-pool-requirements).
Ask the builder to explain anything on the survey that could affect the proposed layout. If your property has an HOA, check its approval process separately from government permitting.
Have the contractor explain design and review
County requirements include signed and sealed building plans and a site-specific pool layout. A recorded Notice of Commencement is required before the first inspection, as applicable under state law. The [county checklist](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists/residential-pool-requirements) explains these submissions.
Ask who will prepare documents, respond to review comments and keep you informed about approval status.
Choose a compliant safety arrangement
Florida law requires qualifying safety features for new residential pools before final approval. The available compliance paths and barrier requirements are set out in the [Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act](https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/Chapter515).
Have the builder identify the proposed compliance path in writing. Ask how gates, doors, covers or alarms fit that design rather than assuming an existing fence or enclosure is sufficient.
Address flood exposure and enclosure wind design
County pool guidance includes additional design provisions for mapped flood hazard areas. Ask the designer to confirm how the property's designation affects the plans using the [county pool checklist](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists/residential-pool-requirements).
For an enclosure, ask how hurricane wind exposure, structural connections and anchoring are addressed. The county requires enclosure plans under the current Florida Building Code; consult its [enclosure requirements](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists/residential-screen-enclosure-and-glass-room-additions).
Keep inspection and completion responsibilities clear
Ask the contractor which inspections apply, who schedules them and what documentation confirms completion. Request a clear explanation of when the pool can be used and what startup instructions you will receive.
Riverview Pool Builder Quotes is a referral service run by RG Holdings. It does not perform, sell or install construction, submit designs as your contractor or issue permit approvals. The contractor you choose is responsible for the work described in your agreement.
Questions homeowners ask
Does HOA approval replace a pool permit?
Treat HOA review and government permitting as separate approvals. Ask your association about its requirements and have the contractor confirm the permitting path for your property before work begins.
How long will the permit take?
Timing varies with the application, review comments and property conditions. Ask the contractor for a project-specific estimate and an explanation of what could change it.
Can this referral service approve my pool plans?
No. RG Holdings operates a referral service. The appropriate permitting authority reviews applications, and the contractor you choose coordinates the project responsibilities in your agreement.
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