Can I put a hot tub in my backyard?

Author: Susana Stroman  |  Last update: Monday, June 23, 2025

After having been involved with thousands of hot tub deliveries at Hydropool, we can assure you that this is the golden rule: In most cases, a hot tub can be placed in a backyard if there is a 40” clear path to the desired location for the hot tub. If you have that, chances are you're in great shape.

Do you need a permit to put a hot tub in your backyard?

Prefabricated vs. Custom

So, you likely won't need a building permit if you're installing an average-size above-ground hot tub. This changes, though, if you're having a hot tub custom-built, or are installing an in-ground hot tub. In that case, you'll probably need a building permit in order to proceed.

How much does it cost to build a hot tub in your backyard?

The typical in-ground hot tub costs $8,000 to $25,000 when built from scratch, but is only $6,000 to $15,000 when built in conjunction with new pool excavation.

How far from your house should a hot tub be?

Proximity: Placing the tub near an entry door is convenient, especially during colder months. However, it needs to be at least 16 feet from power lines and 5 feet from buildings to minimize the risk of electrocution or flooding.

Where not to put a hot tub?

Utility lines: DO NOT place your hot tub directly under or within 12 feet of overhead power, telephone or cable lines.

I Built the Worlds Tallest Hot Tub in my Front Yard!

Where should a hot tub be placed in the backyard?

Choose a hot tub location not within 16 feet of overhead power lines to avoid electrocution. The equipment should also be 5 feet away from any other structure to reduce the risk of flooding. Many homeowners opt to place their hot tubs in-ground to protect family and guests from slips and falls.

What will ruin a hot tub?

6 Things that Destroy Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
  • Leaving the Spa Dry after Draining. If you don't refill your spa after draining and performing maintenance, then you might end up wrecking it. ...
  • Excess Contaminants. ...
  • Soaps and Bubble Baths. ...
  • Using Pool Chemicals. ...
  • Shutting Off the Spa. ...
  • Keeping the Spa Uncovered.

Can I put my hot tub next to my house?

Although it's important to ensure your hot tub is accessible for all those who will use it, it's essential to remember that your hot tub or spa is some distance from your home. Although it may change from location to location, typically speaking, you will want to keep about 5 feet of distance between your spa and home.

Should a hot tub be in the sun or shade?

If possible, keep your hot tub positioned in the shade. The combination of being sat in direct sunlight while relaxing in the hot water can quickly lead to you getting far too hot. So, staying shaded – whether that's by trees, a gazebo, garden umbrella, or a veranda, is for the best!

How much space do you need for a 6 person hot tub?

If you opt for a mid-sized hot tub that would fit four to five people, expect it to be between 7- to 8-feet square. However, if you are party people and want a large hot tub that would accommodate six to eight people, expect that size to measure 9-feet square of larger.

What is the monthly cost of owning a hot tub?

When you factor in the cost of the water, the electricity, the water treatment, and the other hot tub maintenance expenses, then you are looking at a cost of anywhere from $50 to $100 per month. However, the cost is worth it since you will be able to soothe and rejuvenate your body anytime that you want.

Is a backyard spa worth it?

While the initial cost may seem significant, consider the potential returns in terms of enjoyment, relaxation, and improved well-being. A hot tub provides a sanctuary within your own home, transforming your backyard into a personal oasis for quality family time, socializing with friends, or simple relaxation.

How long do hot tubs last?

A hot tub can last anywhere from 5-20 years or more. Cheaper hot tubs made with lower quality materials won't last long. If those hot tubs are not well maintained, they may not last more than 5 years. Quality hot tubs that receive excellent care can be enjoyed for as long as 20 or more years.

Do you need a concrete slab for a hot tub?

While concrete is a great option, your hot tub can be placed on any stable, level surface that will not become unstable due to moisture or weight. Other installation surfaces include wooden decks, paver stones, gravel beds, or spa pads.

Can I drain my hot tub water into my yard?

In most cases, very little to no damage will occur to the lawn when a pool, hot tub, or other chlorinated water source is emptied on it, provided it is not done frequently, dumped all in one spot, and care is taken to reduce the chlorine concentration as much as possible from the typical range for a pool or hot tub (1 ...

Is a hot tub considered personal property?

A free-standing hot tub is usually considered personal property, but the seller might prefer to leave it. A pond would be a fixture, but a water fountain might not be.

Can hot tubs be cold in summer?

By turning your temperature town to 85ºF or less, you can create the perfect cool tub. Keeping the temperature at around 67-85ºF gives the water a nice cooling effect on the skin, creating a perfect cool down during the dead of summer. Plus, you can save on heating costs this way, too!

Where is the best place to put a hot tub?

Your hot tub can be placed just about anywhere—outdoors or even indoors when practical. You can put it on a deck, patio, rooftop entertaining area, or even under a gazebo. The perfect spot for your hot tub all depends on your home and landscape design and layout, as well as your personal tastes.

How to keep dogs off a hot tub?

If it's a quick win you are looking for, cats and dogs will avoid sitting on your hot tub if a citrus based spray has been dispensed around the perimeter of the tub as they are said to hate the smell. If that doesn't work, then a gate or shelter will help to keep the furry-four-legged companions away.

Are hot tubs a nuisance?

On average, your hot tub will generate 41-67dB of noise.

Due to this, you may want to keep an ear out for your hot tub's noise levels to ensure that it doesn't bother your neighbours. Obviously, this depends on your neighbours, the placement of your hot tub and the features of your specific hot tub.

How to get a hot tub to the backyard?

In most cases getting the hot tub into the backyard is fairly simple and straightforward. A delivery crew will bring the hot tub to your home and then place the hot tub on its side on a hot tub cart. Then they roll the cart into your backyard and to the spot you would like the hot tub placed..

Can you put a TV near a hot tub?

Use surge protection

Water and electricity don't mix, but that doesn't mean you can't have a TV near your hot tub. To protect your TV (and your entire outdoor space) from any potential water damage, be sure to plug it into a surge protector.

What is the most common problem with hot tub?

Water Chemistry Maintenance

Speaking of water chemistry, it's one of the most common issues with hot tubs - and it's usually the easiest to correct. To avoid big issues in the first place, test your water often. 4-in-1 strips are easy to use - with these, you can quickly identify the issue and take steps to correct it.

Will Epsom salt ruin a hot tub?

The alkaline chemical composition of Epsom salt may damage the hot tub equipment, interfere with sanitizers, and corrode metal parts.

How much electricity does a hot tub use?

Typical Usage:

On average, an electric hot tub uses between 1,500 to 6,000 watts, depending on the model and usage.

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