Pool Permits: Delano vs Ridgecrest

Do I need a permit for an above-ground pool?

Yes — California Building Code generally requires permits for any pool over 18 inches deep.

What size pool requires a permit in unincorporated Kern County?

Appendix M defines a regulated swimming pool as 'a portable or permanent artificial basin, chamber, or tank which when filled with water to overflow contains more than one thousand (1,000) gallons or is over two (2) feet in depth at any point.' Private wading pools below both thresholds are exempt from the Appendix M plumbing/disposal provisions (Kern Co. Code App. M12), but other building, electrical, and barrier rules can still apply once depth or volume thresholds are crossed.

Do I need to plan how pool water will be disposed of before building?

Yes. Appendix M provision M1 requires that the method of pool wastewater disposal be approved by the Kern County Public Works Director (Administrative Authority) before any work begins. M2 requires written permission from the proper authority before discharging pool wastewater into a public sewer or storm drain. M3 allows surface or subsurface irrigation when no hazard, nuisance, or unsanitary condition results. M4 allows a drywell only when no other disposal is available, and M5 prohibits any direct connection between pool lines and a sewer, storm drain, drywell, or subsoil irrigation line.

Do public or commercial pools have additional requirements?

Yes. Kern County Code Appendix M section M10 requires that 'Plans for other than private swimming pools shall be approved by the health officer before any water supply or waste discharge permit is issued.' Public pools are also separately permitted and inspected by Kern County Public Health Services under California Health & Safety Code Division 104, Part 10, Chapter 5 and Title 22 CCR (state public pool regulations).