Swimming Pools & Spas in San Bernardino, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in San Bernardino or are thinking about moving there, swimming pools & spas are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. San Bernardino has 5 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of swimming pools & spas, and some of them might surprise you.
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools in San Bernardino over 18 inches deep follow the same permit and barrier rules as in-ground pools. Pool walls of 60 inches can serve as the barrier when steps or ladders are locked or gated.
Key details: Depth Trigger: 18 inches plus. Wall as Barrier: Only if 60 inches plus. Steps: Lock or self-closing gate. Bonding: Required to metal frame. Permit: Building and electrical.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Hot Tub Rules
San Bernardino treats spas over 18 inches deep as pools under CA H and S Code 115921. A locking ASTM F1346 safety cover can substitute for the perimeter fence on residential hot tubs when kept locked when not in use.
Key details: Definition Trigger: Over 18 inches deep. Cover Standard: ASTM F1346 locking. Electrical: 240V GFCI, bonded. Max Temperature: 104 F. Permit: Building and electrical.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Pool Permits
San Bernardino requires building, electrical, and plumbing permits for every pool over 18 inches deep. Plans are reviewed under SBMC Title 15 and must show barrier compliance with CA H and S Code 115920.
Key details: Trigger: Over 18 inches deep. Permits: Building, electrical, plumbing. Code: SBMC Title 15, CBC Appendix V. Safety Law: CA H and S Code 115920. Contact: (909) 384-5122.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Compared to other cities, San Bernardino takes a harder line on pool permits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Safety Rules
San Bernardino enforces pool safety under CA H and S Code 115920, the federal Virginia Graeme Baker anti-entrapment rules, and Building Code alarm and cover rules. Public pools are inspected by county health.
Key details: Drain Covers: ANSI APSP-16 compliant. Barrier: 60 inch fence required. Secondary Feature: 1 of 7 state options. Public Pools: County health oversight. State Law: H and S Code 115920.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Compared to other cities, San Bernardino takes a harder line on safety rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Fencing Requirements
San Bernardino pool barriers follow CA H and S Code 115920. Pools over 18 inches deep need a 60-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching outward-swinging gates plus one of seven approved safety features.
Key details: Barrier Height: 60 inches minimum. Gate: Self-closing, self-latching, outward. Second Feature: 1 of 7 approved options. Ground Gap: 2 inches maximum. State Law: H and S Code 115922.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. San Bernardino actively enforces its fencing requirements requirements.
The Bottom Line
San Bernardino is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in San Bernardino, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
All of the above reflects San Bernardino's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.