Swimming Pools & Spas in Los Angeles, CA (2026)
5 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Los Angeles, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
A building permit from LADBS is required for construction of any in-ground or permanent above-ground swimming pool. Electrical and plumbing permits are also needed. Plans must show barrier compliance, drainage, and setbacks. Pools in hillside areas may require additional grading permits. Express permits are available for simple installations meeting standard criteria.
Los Angeles Swimming Pool Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Health & Safety Code Sec. 115922 (Building Permit for Pool/Spa — Drowning Prevention Safety Features)
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 drowning preven...
Fencing Requirements
LAMC 91.3109 and 91.6109 require residential pool barriers at least 60 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Openings may not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. At least 2 of 7 drowning prevention safety features required for new pools including mesh fencing, safety covers, or exit alarms. The barrier must be non-climbable with no horizontal members less than 45 inches apart on the outside.
Los Angeles Pool Fencing & Barrier Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsSafety Rules
CA Swimming Pool Safety Act (H&S Code 115920-115929) applies in LA. All new residential pools require at least 2 drowning prevention features. Drain covers must comply with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act. Pool equipment must meet Title 24 energy standards. Public pools have additional requirements including 5-foot barriers and regular health inspections.
Los Angeles Pool Safety Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsAbove-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools with water 18+ inches deep are subject to the same barrier requirements as in-ground pools under LAMC 91.6109. If the pool structure itself serves as the barrier, the ladder or steps must be removable or surrounded by a separate barrier. Portable pools under 18 inches deep are exempt from barrier requirements but still subject to water safety rules.
Los Angeles Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Health & Safety Code Sec. 115921 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — Definitions, including aboveground pools)
115921. As used in this article, the following terms have the following meanings: (a) "Swimming pool" or "pool" means any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 18 inches deep. "Swimming pool" includes in-ground and aboveground structures and includes, but is not limited to, hot tubs, spas, portable spas, and nonportable wading pools. (b) "Public swimmi...
Hot Tub Rules
Hot tubs, spas, and portable spas are included in the LAMC definition of swimming pool and are subject to the same barrier and safety requirements when containing 18+ inches of water. Covers meeting ASTM F1346 can serve as one of the required drowning prevention features. A lockable safety cover may reduce but not eliminate barrier requirements. Electrical installation requires a permit.
Los Angeles Hot Tub & Spa Regulations
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Health & Safety Code Sec. 115921 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — Hot Tubs and Spas Included in "Pool")
115921. As used in this article, the following terms have the following meanings: (a) "Swimming pool" or "pool" means any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 18 inches deep. "Swimming pool" includes in-ground and aboveground structures and includes, but is not limited to, hot tubs, spas, portable spas, and nonportable wading pools. (b) "Public swimmi...
Looking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Los Angeles city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Los Angeles County →