Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Swimming Pools & Spas in Long Beach, CA (2026)

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

Verified from official government sources

Pool Permits

A backyard pool counts as a structure under Long Beach's building permit law, so any in-ground or substantial above-ground pool needs a Building Official permit. Only two narrow categories of very small, shallow pools are exempt under LBMC § 18.04.020(B)(16)-(17).

Long Beach Residential Pool Permit Threshold

Some Restrictions

Long Beach Municipal Code § 18.04.020(B)(16)-(17)

16. Swimming, bathing and wading pools not over eighteen (18) inches in depth, provide a distance from the pool to the property lines and buildings or structures not less than the depth of the pool, and not having a surface area exceeding two hundred fifty (250) square feet; there is no electrical or plumbing installation. 17. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a one- or two-family dwell...

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Long Beach pools must comply with the CA Swimming Pool Safety Act (HSC §115920-115929). At least two safety features required: barrier/fence, pool cover, alarms, or self-closing doors. Virginia Graeme Baker Act drain cover compliance is mandatory.

Long Beach Swimming Pool Safety Rules

Some Restrictions

California Health and Safety Code § 115922 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — Required Safety Features)

Sec. 3.5. ) 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 pool 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 at least two of the following seven dro...

Looking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?

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

Swimming Pools & Spas in Los Angeles County