Bakersfield's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Bakersfield, California, there are 5 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Safety Rules
Bakersfield residential pools must meet state safety requirements including anti-entrapment drain covers under the federal Virginia Graeme Baker (VGB) Act, equipotential bonding of all metal within 5 feet of water, and the two-feature drowning prevention rule of H&S 115922. Pool alarms, door alarms, and safety covers must meet ASTM standards when used to satisfy the second required feature. Bakersfield does not require a lifeguard or safety equipment list for private residential pools, but community and HOA pools must post depth markings, capacity, emergency contact information, and rescue equipment.
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Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Bakersfield code enforcement](https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Pool-Safely/VGB-Pool-and-Spa-Safety-Act) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Compared to other cities, Bakersfield takes a harder line on safety rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Fencing Requirements
Bakersfield enforces California Health & Safety Code sections 115920-115929 (the Swimming Pool Safety Act) for all new residential pools and spas. Pools must be surrounded by a barrier at least 60 inches high with no gaps wider than 4 inches and no horizontal handholds below 45 inches. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the release at least 54 inches above the ground. Owners must install at least two of seven drowning-prevention features listed in section 115922, which include the barrier, pool covers, door alarms, and pool alarms. The enclosure must separate the pool from the home and neighboring yards.
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Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Bakersfield code enforcement](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&division=104.&title=&part=10.&chapter=5.&article=) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Bakersfield actively enforces its fencing requirements requirements.
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools more than 18 inches deep require a building permit in Bakersfield and must meet the same barrier, bonding, and anti-entrapment standards as in-ground pools. The pool wall itself can serve as part of the barrier if it is at least 48-60 inches high and the ladder is removable or lockable. Setback minimums of 5 feet from property lines apply in most residential zones. Soft-sided inflatable pools under 18 inches are exempt from permitting but parents are still liable for supervision and fencing is strongly recommended.
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Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Bakersfield code enforcement](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&division=104.&title=&part=10.&chapter=5.&article=) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Hot Tub Rules
Hot tubs and spas in Bakersfield require a building permit and an electrical permit, and must meet state pool safety rules including bonding, GFCI protection, anti-entrapment drain covers, and the two-feature drowning prevention rule. A hot tub with a lockable safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 satisfies the barrier requirement in lieu of a fence. Portable 240V units must be installed by a licensed electrician on a dedicated circuit. Setbacks match pool rules, typically 5 feet from property lines and structures. HOAs commonly require architectural committee approval before installation.
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Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Bakersfield code enforcement](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&division=104.&title=&part=10.&chapter=5.&article=) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Pool Permits
Building permits are required for any swimming pool or spa deeper than 18 inches in Bakersfield, issued by the Building Division under the 2022 California Building Standards Code. Applications require site plans showing setbacks (typically 5 feet from property lines and structures), plumbing and electrical details, barrier and suction safety features, and drainage. Inspections are required at excavation/steel, rough plumbing, rough electrical, bonding, barrier, and final stages. Permit fees are based on valuation and typically run $500-$1,500 for an in-ground pool. Separate electrical and plumbing permits are issued with the pool package. HOAs in newer communities often require architectural committee approval before the city permit.
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Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Bakersfield code enforcement](https://www.bakersfieldcity.us/260/Building) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
The Bottom Line
Bakersfield is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Bakersfield, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
Keep in mind that Bakersfield can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.