Swimming Pools & Spas in San Diego, CA (2026)
2 verified swimming pools & spas rules for San Diego, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pool Permits
All in-ground swimming pools require a building permit in San Diego. Prefabricated above-ground pools under 5,000 gallons and less than 18 inches deep are exempt. Permits include plumbing, electrical, fencing, and barrier inspections. Pools must meet setback requirements from property lines.
San Diego Swimming Pool Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsCal. Health & Safety Code § 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 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 & Safety Requirements
SDMC Section 145.0303 requires a fence at least 60 inches high completely surrounding all swimming pools. Maximum 2-inch ground clearance. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Chain link mesh no larger than 2.25 inches. Non-pedestrian gates must have lockable hardware.
San Diego Pool Fencing Requirements
Some RestrictionsCal. Health & Safety Code §§ 115920–115929 (Swimming Pool Safety Act)
(SB 552) Effective January 1, 2025.) 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 o...
Looking for San Diego County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Diego city rules.
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