Homes for Sale with a Pool in Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale sits in the heart of the Phoenix Valley, and it's known for its walkable Old Town, world-class golf, desert trails and a strong dining scene. My office is right here in Scottsdale, so this is home turf for me. Whether you're relocating from out of state or just moving across the Valley, I'll help you find the part of Scottsdale that fits how you want to live. These are the newest homes for sale in Scottsdale where the MLS listing data shows a pool. In the Phoenix area, a pool can be used much of the year, but it also adds ongoing cost and upkeep.
What to Check on a Pool Home
- The age and condition of the pump, filter, heater and other equipment.
- The condition of the pool surface, tile and decking.
- Monthly costs for maintenance, chemicals and electricity, and whether a pool service comes with the home.
- Fencing, barriers and safety requirements that apply to the property.
Before You Buy
Ask for the age and condition of the pool equipment and surface, and consider a separate pool inspection during your inspection period.
Every purchase is different, and I'm a strong negotiator who keeps negotiating until the keys are in my client's hands. On some homes you may also be able to take over the seller's existing FHA, VA or USDA loan; see my assumable mortgage guide.
Scottsdale pool homes: questions people ask
How tall does a pool fence have to be in Scottsdale?
Under Scottsdale's amended pool code, a residential pool or spa barrier must be at least 60 inches tall, measured on the side facing away from the water. Pools built before July 15, 1992 only have to meet the 54-inch perimeter fence and gate rule that applied when they were built. Every hot tub and spa needs an approved barrier too, and the owner is responsible for keeping the barrier, gates, latches and any alarms in good working order.
What if the back wall of the house is part of the pool barrier?
When the house wall is part of the barrier, Scottsdale's amended code requires an audible alarm on doors, gates and operable windows with a sill lower than 48 inches. The alarm must be listed as a water hazard entrance alarm, sound within 7 seconds and reset on its own, with only a temporary pause button mounted at least 54 inches above the door threshold. Buyers can ask whether a home's door alarms are in place and working.
Do I need a permit to add a pool to a Scottsdale home I buy?
Yes, Scottsdale requires a pool permit for a new pool, and the site plan has to show where the barrier fence goes and how tall it is. A new fence needs its own fence permit, and the city will not approve the pool plan until the fence or wall plan is approved. Pools generally have to sit at least 2 feet from the property line, and pool equipment must be at least 10 feet from any opening into a neighbor's living area.
Where can I drain or backwash my pool in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale Water says pool water can go onto your own landscaping or into the home's sanitary sewer cleanout, but never into the street or a storm drain. If you drain onto the yard, keep the water on your property and move the hose often. For more water than the landscape can absorb, the city suggests the sewer cleanout with the pump flow kept to about 50 gallons per minute or less.
Does Scottsdale have public pools?
Yes, the City of Scottsdale runs three aquatic centers: Cactus, Eldorado and McDowell Mountain Ranch, which also has a waterpark. Hours change often, so check each center's schedule with the city. See more in my Moving to Scottsdale guide.
Learn more in my Moving to Scottsdale guide, browse homes by lifestyle and amenity, or compare all my Greater Phoenix city guides. Call Terry Day at 602-483-4665.
