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Swimming Pools & Spas in Cupertino, CA (2026)

2 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Cupertino, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Pool Permits

Cupertino requires a building permit to construct or install a residential swimming pool, with only a narrow exemption for small prefabricated above-ground pools. A pool is exempt only if it is accessory to a single-family or duplex home, less than 24 inches deep, no larger than 5,000 gallons, and installed entirely above ground; anything larger or in-ground needs a permit.

Cupertino Residential Pool Permit Rule

Some Restrictions

Cupertino Municipal Code § 16.04.050 (CBC § 105.2)

[A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of the City of Cupertino. Permits shall not be required for the following: ... Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a group R-3 occupancy that are less...

Fencing & Safety Requirements

When a permit is issued for a new pool or spa, or for remodeling an existing one, at a Cupertino single-family home, the pool must have at least two of seven state drowning-prevention safety features. Options include an isolating enclosure or a self-closing, self-latching door device set no lower than 54 inches high. The Building Official inspects before final approval.

Cupertino Pool Barrier and Safety Rules

Some Restrictions

Cupertino Municipal Code § 16.06.140 (Appendix CI, § 115922)

115922. (a) Except as provided in Section 115925, subject to subdivision (b), and consistent with Section 1596.814, when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming or spa or the remodeling of an existing swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with two of the following seven drowning prevention safety fe...

Looking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Cupertino city rules.

Swimming Pools & Spas in Santa Clara County