Bakersfield's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Bakersfield, California, there are 2 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.

Fencing & Safety 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.

Key details: Barrier Must: Barrier must be at least 60 inches high with no gaps wider. Gates Must: Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, with release 54 inches high. At Least: At least two of seven safety features required (AB 3109, 2018). Doors From: Doors from house to pool area need alarms or isolation fencing. Chain-link Mesh: Chain-link mesh must be 1.75 inches or slatted to be compliant.

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.

Key details: Permit Requirement: Permit required for pools/spas deeper than 18 inches including above-ground. Setback: Minimum 5-foot setback from property lines and structures in most zones. Inspection Stages: Inspections required at steel, plumbing, electrical, barrier, and final stages. Permit Cost: Typical permit cost $500-$1,500 based on pool valuation. Drain Standard: Pool drains must meet federal VGB Act anti-entrapment standards.

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.

Compared to other cities, Bakersfield takes a harder line on pool permits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Bakersfield's swimming pools & spas rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Bakersfield is broadly strict or permissive.

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.