How Selma Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Selma maintains 97 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Selma falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Safety Rules

Selma requires anti-entrapment drain covers, GFCI-protected outlets, and depth markers for residential pools. Fresno County inspects public and semi-public pools.

Key details: Drain Covers: Anti-entrapment (VGB Act compliant). GFCI Protection: All outlets within 20 feet. Depth Markers: Required at deep and shallow ends. Building Code: 2022 California Building Code.

Noncompliance with pool safety requirements may result in correction notices from the Building Department. Public and semi-public pools found in violation during county health inspections may be ordered closed until corrections are made. Failure to maintain drain covers or safety equipment may result in administrative fines.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Selma actively enforces its safety rules requirements.

Fencing Requirements

Selma requires 60-inch pool barriers with self-closing, self-latching gates per California Swimming Pool Safety Act. At least two drowning prevention features required.

Key details: Minimum Fence Height: 60 inches (5 feet). Gate Type: Self-closing, self-latching. Latch Height: 54 inches minimum (pool side). Safety Features Required: At least 2 of 7 approved. Governing Law: CA HSC Section 115920.

Failure to maintain required pool barriers may result in code enforcement action. The Building Department may issue correction notices requiring immediate compliance. A building permit will not receive final approval until all barrier requirements are met. Repeated noncompliance may result in administrative fines and referral to the City Attorney.

Compared to other cities, Selma takes a harder line on fencing requirements. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Pool Permits

Swimming pool construction in Selma requires a building permit from the Selma Building Department. All pools must comply with the California Building Code, including the Swimming Pool Safety Act barrier requirements, electrical bonding standards, and plumbing code provisions for drainage and water supply connections.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, from Building Department. Barrier Height: Minimum 60 inches. Safety Features: At least 2 required by state law. Gate Standard: Self-closing and self-latching. Contact: Selma Building Dept (559) 891-2200.

Building a pool without a permit is a building code violation subject to stop-work orders, double permit fees, and required retroactive inspections. Pools lacking required safety barriers may be red-tagged until brought into compliance.

Hot Tub Rules

Hot tubs in Selma need ASTM F1346 safety covers or pool barriers. Electrical permits and GFCI protection required. Spa water must drain to sanitary sewer.

Key details: Safety Cover Standard: ASTM F1346. Electrical Requirement: Dedicated 240V GFCI circuit. Permit Required: Yes, for electrical work. Water Discharge: Sanitary sewer only (not storm drain).

Installing a hot tub without required electrical permits may result in correction notices. Discharging chemically treated spa water to the storm drain violates Fresno County stormwater regulations and may result in fines. Noncompliant safety covers or missing barrier features are subject to code enforcement.

Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools in Selma need 60-inch barriers like in-ground pools. Walls under 60 inches require additional fencing. Permits needed for permanent installations.

Key details: Barrier Requirement: 60-inch total height from exterior grade. Permit Trigger: Permanent plumbing or electrical. Property Line Setback: At least 5 feet. Exempt Depth: Under 18 inches of water.

Installation of an above-ground pool without required permits may result in a stop-work order or correction notice. Pools without compliant barriers may be cited under the Swimming Pool Safety Act. The Building Department may require removal or modification of noncompliant installations.

The Bottom Line

Selma 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 Selma, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Selma's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.