Torrance's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Torrance, 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.
Pool Permits
Building permit required for new pool construction. Pools in residential zones must maintain 5 ft setback from side/rear property lines and 20 ft from front.
Key details: Permit: Required for new pools. Side/Rear Setback: 5 ft minimum. Street Side: 10 ft minimum. Front: 20 ft minimum.
Installing a pool without a required permit is a building code violation. Permits expire under specified timeframes. Contact Building & Safety at (310) 618-2870.
Fencing Requirements
Pool enclosures must be at least 60 inches (5 ft) high with self-closing, self-latching gates per CA Building Code and Torrance requirements.
Key details: Min Height: 60 inches (5 ft). Gates: Self-closing, self-latching. State Law: CA Building Code Ch 31. Additional: Pool cover, alarm, or door alarm.
Non-compliant pool enclosures violate the adopted California Building Code. Stop-work orders and fines may apply. Contact Building & Safety at (310) 618-2870.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Torrance actively enforces its fencing requirements requirements.
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools must comply with the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools. Building permits may be required depending on size and permanence.
Key details: Barriers: Same as in-ground (60 in). State Law: CA Swimming Pool Safety Act. Permit: May be required. Setback: 5 ft from property lines.
Unpermitted pools: removal or retroactive permit with double fees. Safety violations: immediate correction required. Fines $100 to $500.
Hot Tub Rules
Hot tubs and spas must comply with barrier requirements when accessible to children. Hard covers that meet ASTM standards may satisfy barrier requirements.
Key details: Barriers: Required per CA Pool Safety Act. Hard Cover: ASTM-compliant cover accepted. Electrical: GFCI protection required. Setback: Same as pools (5 ft min).
Unpermitted electrical work: fines and required correction. Drainage violations: remediation required. Safety cover violations: immediate correction.
Safety Rules
California Swimming Pool Safety Act requires at least one additional safety feature beyond fencing: pool cover, alarm system, or self-closing doors leading to pool area.
Key details: State Law: CA H&S Code 115920-115929. Required: Fence + 1 additional feature. Options: Cover, alarm, or auto-door. Drain Covers: VGB Act compliant required.
Non-compliance with the Swimming Pool Safety Act may result in permit denial, stop-work orders, and fines.
This is one of the stricter rules in Torrance's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
The Bottom Line
Torrance 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 Torrance, 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 Torrance's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.