Swimming Pools & Spas in Modesto, CA (2026)
5 verified swimming pools & spas rules for Modesto, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
Modesto requires a building permit from the city's Building Safety Division before constructing, installing, or substantially remodeling any swimming pool, spa, or hot tub. Permits include separate electrical, plumbing, and barrier inspections.
Building Permit Required from Modesto Building Safety
Some RestrictionsCity of Modesto - Building Permits (Building Safety Division)
Building permits are important in protecting your safety and the safety of those around you. The City of Modesto requires permits so that it can ensure that construction is being done properly and in accordance with all life safety requirements and building codes.
Fencing Requirements
Modesto does not impose a city-specific pool barrier ordinance; California Health & Safety Code (Swimming Pool Safety Act) and the California Building Code preempt and set the minimum enclosure standards.
State Pool Barrier Standards Apply in Modesto
Heavy RestrictionsCalifornia Health & Safety Code § 115923
(a) An enclosure shall have all of the following characteristics: (1) Any access gates through the enclosure open away from the swimming pool, and are self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground. (2) A minimum height of 60 inches. (3) A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches. (4) Gaps or voids, if any,...
Safety Rules
Modesto enforces California state pool safety regulations including barrier requirements, anti-entrapment drain covers, and the Swimming Pool Safety Act. Building permits with electrical, plumbing, and barrier inspections are required for all new pools.
Modesto Swimming Pool Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCal. Health & Safety Code Sec. 115922 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — Drowning Prevention Features)
115922. (a) ... the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with at least two of the following seven drowning prevention safety features: (1) An enclosure that meets the requirements of Section 115923 and isolates the swimming pool or spa from the private single-family home. (2) Removable mesh fencing that meets the ASTM International F2286 standard in conjunction with a gate that is ...
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools in Modesto must meet the same safety barrier requirements as in-ground pools if they hold 18+ inches of water. Pools with walls at least 48 inches high with lockable ladders may satisfy some barrier requirements.
Modesto Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsCal. Health & Safety Code Sec. 115921 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — Includes Above-Ground Pools, Spas, and Wading 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...