Permitting Process for adding a hot tub to your rental in Coulbaugh Township (A Pocono Country Place)
Updated December 2025
Installing a hot tub in Coolbaugh Township, specifically inside A Pocono Country Place, requires obtaining multiple permits, you’ll need:
A Zoning Permit
A Building Permit
A Final Certificate of Authorization (COA) to close out the permits once installation is complete
This guide walks you step-by-step through the entire process so you know what’s required, where to apply, and what the expected costs are.
1. Determine Permit Requirements
Coolbaugh Township requires both zoning and building permits for any hot tub installation.
Here’s what each covers:
Zoning Permit – Ensures the hot tub location complies with township zoning rules (setbacks, property lines, use regulations).
Building Permit – Ensures the installation meets building and electrical safety codes. This includes GFCI electrical work, proper pad/base, and bonding/grounding.
Certificate of Approval (COA) – Issued after all work passes inspections; this document officially closes the permit.
2. Apply for the Zoning Permit
Download the Zoning Application
Use the township’s standard form:
“Zoning Application for Shed, Deck, Pool, Patio, etc.”
Information You’ll Need
Property address and owner contact
Description of project (portable hot tub, plug-and-play vs. hardwired)
A site plan showing the exact location
Distances from property lines (setbacks)
Any required property surveys or drawings
Common APCP Setback Notes
While the HOA enforces its own rules, the township zoning setbacks generally apply to the lot itself. Always confirm with APCP before building.
3. Zoning Permit Fees
For most hot tubs (under 200 sq. ft.), the zoning fee is:
$100.00 flat fee for structures under 200 sq. ft.
If a deck extension or large pad pushes the project above 200 sq. ft., township tiered fees apply:
200–10,000 sq. ft. → $0.30 per sq. ft.
10,001–50,000 sq. ft. → $0.05 per sq. ft.
4. Apply for the Building Permit
Once zoning is approved (or submitted—some people submit both together), you must submit a Building Permit Application.
What the Building Permit Covers
Structural support (concrete pad, reinforced deck, etc.)
Electrical installation (GFCI breakers, disconnects, wiring)
Bonding requirements for water features
Safety compliance per PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
Required Documents
Completed Building Permit Application
Electrical plans from a licensed electrician (required if not plug-and-play)
Pad/deck plans if load-bearing structure is involved
Manufacturer’s installation specifications for the hot tub
Zoning Permit approval or proof of application
Expected Fees
Coolbaugh Township’s building permit fees vary, but typically include:
Base building permit fee (often $50–$75)
UCC surcharge ($4.50, statewide requirement)
Electrical inspection fee (usually $75–$125 depending on provider)
Most homeowners spend $150–$250 total for the building permit phase.
5. Submit Applications
You can submit the zoning permit applications here:
Coolbaugh Township Codes & Zoning Department
5520 Municipal Drive, Tobyhanna, PA 18466
Phone: (570) 894-8490
Fax: (570) 894-8413
You can submit the building permit applications here:
Bereau Veritas
105A Government Center Way Pocono Pines, PA 18350
Phone: (570) 894-2801
Fax: (570) 894-2986
⚠️ Note: As of January 2025, Coolbaugh Township is transitioning to an online portal. Some documents may still require in-person payment or submission. Always call ahead to confirm.
6. Complete Installation & Schedule Inspections
After permits are issued, you may begin the installation.
You will need at least one inspection:
Electrical Inspection
Required for all hardwired tubs and highly recommended even for plug-and-play setups.
Final Building Inspection
Ensures the tub is installed per code and according to the permit.
Inspections are coordinated through the township but performed by one of the township-authorized third-party inspectors.
7. Receive the Certificate of Approval (COA)
Once all inspections are passed, Coolbaugh Township will issue a Certificate of Authorization.
This document is extremely important because:
It legally closes out your building permit
It verifies full compliance for insurance purposes
Many HOAs—including APCP—require proof of completion for their records
It protects you during township or HOA compliance checks
Keep this certificate in your homeowner files.
8. Final Notes for Homeowners in A Pocono Country Place
APCP requires:
Separate HOA approval
Contractor registration
Notification before installation
Specific rules on fencing, setbacks, or aesthetics
Always contact the APCP Property Owners Association in addition to the township to avoid delays.
Need Help?
If you're a homeowner who wants help navigating this process, coordinating permits, scheduling inspections, or installing your hot tub, our team can handle the entire process from start to finish.