Pool Permits: Fullerton vs Midway City
How do pool permits rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Midway City, CA?
Fullerton and Midway City have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Every new or remodeled swimming pool or spa in Fullerton requires a building permit from the Community and Economic Development Department - Building & Safety Division, and plans must comply with the 2022 California Residential Code (including Appendix AX - Swimming Pool Safety Act) as locally amended by FMC chapter 14.04.
View full Fullerton rules →Midway City, CA
Orange County
In unincorporated Orange County, OC Public Works requires a building permit before constructing a swimming pool or spa. Applicants submit a Building Permit Application, a Pool/Spa Questionnaire, and stamped plans through myOCeServices. Planning approval and plan check are required prior to issuance.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Permit issued by | Fullerton Community & Economic Development - Building & Safety Division | - |
| Adopted code | 2022 California Residential Code including Appendix AX (per FMC 14.04.010) | - |
| Local amendments | FMC 14.04.150 (HSC 115922(a)); FMC 14.04.160 (HSC 115923) | - |
| Office address | 303 W. Commonwealth Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92832 | - |
| Building & Safety phone | (714) 738-6856 | - |
| Drain compliance | Virginia Graeme Baker Act and FMC 14.14.080 | - |
| Electrical permit | Separate trade permit required for pool wiring/lighting | - |
| Transition date | Plans submitted on/after Jan. 1, 2026 use 2025 CRC | - |
| Permitting agency | - | OC Public Works / OC Development Services |
| Apply at | - | myOCeServices.ocgov.com (Building Permit App + Pool/Spa Questionnaire) |
| Planning approval | - | Required prior to permit issuance |
| Soil report | - | Required within 15 ft of top / 8 ft of toe of a 1:3 slope (with exceptions) |
| Special inspection | - | Required during gunite/shotcrete placement (2019 CBC) |
| Encroachment permit | - | Separate permit for highway/right-of-way work (Sec. 6-1-2) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
What permits do I need for a backyard pool in Fullerton?
At minimum a building permit for the pool shell plus separate plumbing and electrical permits. If you install a gas heater you also need a plumbing permit for the gas line. Fencing/barriers must be shown on the building plans.
Does an above-ground pool or spa need a permit?
Yes. HSC 115921 defines a 'swimming pool' as any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing containing water over 18 inches deep, which includes most hot tubs, spas, and above-ground pools. Appendix AX of the CRC applies and FMC 14.04 requires permitting.
Which California code edition applies to my pool project?
Projects submitted to Fullerton Building & Safety before January 1, 2026 are reviewed under the 2022 California Residential Code as amended by FMC chapter 14.04. Projects submitted on or after that date are reviewed under the 2025 edition.
Midway City FAQ
Do I need a permit to build a pool in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes. OC Public Works requires a building permit before construction begins. You submit a Building Permit Application, a Pool/Spa Questionnaire, and plans through myOCeServices.ocgov.com, and Planning approval and plan check must be completed before the permit is issued.
When is a soil report required for my pool?
A soil report is required if the pool is less than 15 feet from the top of a slope, or less than 8 feet from the toe of a slope steeper than 1 unit vertical in 3 horizontal, unless you comply with the specific exceptions listed in the Swimming Pool and Spa Packet (such as a deepened keyway foundation with the required daylight setback).
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