Well - yes & no to the "set-back" rules. Technically the side yard on both sides is an "easement" - BUT we have A/C units on the other side and the city basically told us if utilities need to be installed in the side yards we are responsible to remove and reinstall our own equipment - but since we back up to a pond, that is highly unlikely. The department at the city that approves pool permitting does not check it to be in compliance with zoning regulations - so all the pools in our subdivision are like that. Pool equipment is A LOT quieter than the 3 A/C units outside our bedroom windows.

Did the neighbors have an issue with it - YES - but they had an issue with everything. The equipment can barely be heard in their yard or ours and it cannot be heard inside the house (all concrete block - good sound insulator)