Updated 7-22-25
Permits
The easiest way to be certain if you will need a permit to add a hot tub on your property is to contact your local building department. Greene County, alone, for example, has close to 20 different towns and villages, which may write their own codes. So there are probably places that require one in our area of the Catskills.
Mainly, what the various building departments want to see is how your hot tub model conforms to local codes regarding property lines (set backs) or the minimum distance between installations and the lot line.
It is also possible to do an online search of your own Town and type in ‘building codes’ and ‘hot tubs’ to get the needed information.
Electricians
Here we can be very definite. “Yes. A licensed electrician is required,” says our own Bill Renter. “This is because a hot tub uses heaters, filters, pumps, lights etc. requiring a bonded professional. Such an electrician will provide hot tub purchasers with an underwriter’s certificate indicating that it’s been inspected and approved to meet the NED (National Electric Code).”
Very often, Best Hot Tubs staff can recommend someone for this, or new clients can use their own electrician. In the owners manual we provide, there are clear instructions on how the spa you purchased from us is supposed to be wired and this can be shared with the electrician.
Most find that checking on permits and hiring an electrician for the installation are easy enough when you consider the benefits of a family-size water feature. Indeed, from our personal experiences, and what our clients tell us, these steps are well worth it.
Happy hot tubbing!
The One Exception
We carry Tuff Spas just for rentals in our Windham showroom. These are plug-and-play models that don’t require any special electrical outlet upgrades (or an electrician) to accommodate them.
This makes them an ideal choice for those who don’t want to bother upgrading their electricity just for a short rental period.
Town Permits for Hot Tubs:
If your Town has hot tub codes related to safety issues, sections of your owner’s manual can be helpful. These covers, for example, are very durable and include locking clips for added security when not in use. And some spas we have in stock offer a durable cover that can ease concerns by the Town.
Hot Tub Installation:
A hot tub uses a heater, filter, pump, lights etc. — so local codes may require a licensed electrician when installing a hot tub in Greene County (NY).
Bullfrog Spas Installation:
When it comes to installing hot tubs, some Towns need to see how your model conforms to local codes regarding property lines (set backs) or the minimum distance between installations and the lot line.
Deck Hot Tub Installation
Whether or not you need a special permit to install a hot tub, and whether or not you have a spectacular view, the rewards are well worth it.
Contact us:
For a new spa or spa maintenance:
Best Hot Tubs Sales/Service/Windham, NY
Route 23 & Co Road 65, Windham, NY 12496 (518) 734-9100.
Best Hot Tubs Repairs and Service/Long Island/Metro, NY
Email: Carmen@besthottubs.com | Phone: (631) 465-0175
