Swimming Pools & Spas in San Clemente, CA (2026)
5 verified swimming pools & spas rules for San Clemente, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
The San Clemente Building Division requires a building permit (with plumbing, electrical and mechanical trades) to construct a swimming pool, spa or hot tub. Plans on minimum 11x17 sheets, stamped by a licensed engineer or architect, must be plan-checked before any excavation begins.
San Clemente Swimming Pool & Spa Permits
Some RestrictionsFencing Requirements
Every San Clemente pool must be fully enclosed by a barrier. The city's BI-17 standard requires a fence at least 60 inches tall with no gaps passing a 4-inch sphere, a bottom no more than 2 inches above grade, and self-closing, self-latching gates that swing away from the pool.
San Clemente Pool Fence & Barrier Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsSafety Rules
San Clemente amends the state Pool Safety Act to require two independent safety measures: the enclosing barrier plus a second device. When a house wall forms part of the barrier, two additional protections (door alarms, self-latching doors, mesh fence, safety cover or pool alarm) are required.
San Clemente Pool Safety Rules & Devices
Heavy RestrictionsAbove-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools deeper than 18 inches are treated like any pool and need a permit and a compliant barrier. Where the pool wall itself is the barrier and access is by ladder or steps, the ladder must be removable, lockable or raised, or be surrounded by its own compliant barrier.
San Clemente Above-Ground Pool Rules
Some RestrictionsHot Tub Rules
San Clemente treats spas and hot tubs 18 inches or more deep as pools. An in-ground spa under 8 feet in any dimension, or a portable spa, may be exempt from the full barrier if fitted with an approved locking cover kept in place when not in use.
San Clemente Hot Tub & Spa Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Orange County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Clemente city rules.
Swimming Pools & Spas in Orange County →