Safety Rules: Redwood City vs San Mateo
How do safety rules rules compare between Redwood City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
Redwood City and San Mateo have similar restriction levels.
Redwood City, CA
San Mateo County
New pools in Redwood City require a building permit. Pools must meet California Swimming Pool Safety Act requirements. Anti-entrapment drain covers (Virginia Graeme Baker Act) are required on all pools.
View full Redwood City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
New pools in San Mateo require a building permit. Setbacks: 4 ft from property lines (single-family), 5 ft from structures. Prefab above-grade pools under 5,000 gallons are exempt from permit. Anti-entrapment drains required.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redwood City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit | Required for new pools | - |
| Drain Safety | Virginia Graeme Baker Act — required | Virginia Graeme Baker Act required |
| Equipment | Permit and inspection required | - |
| Contact | Building Division (650) 780-7350 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes (except prefab above-grade <5,000 gal) |
| Property Line Setback | - | 4 ft (single-family) |
| Structure Setback | - | 5 ft from any structure |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redwood City FAQ
What pool safety equipment is required in Redwood City?
New pools in Redwood City require a building permit. Pools must meet California Swimming Pool Safety Act requirements. Anti-entrapment drain covers (Virginia Graeme Baker Act) are required on all pools.
Do I need a permit for my swimming pool in Redwood City?
Building Permit: Required for new pools. Drain Safety: Virginia Graeme Baker Act — required. Equipment: Permit and inspection required. Contact: Building Division (650) 780-7350.
San Mateo FAQ
What pool safety equipment is required in San Mateo?
New pools in San Mateo require a building permit. Setbacks: 4 ft from property lines (single-family), 5 ft from structures. Prefab above-grade pools under 5,000 gallons are exempt from permit. Anti-entrapment drains required.
Do I need a permit for my swimming pool in San Mateo?
Permit Required: Yes (except prefab above-grade <5,000 gal). Property Line Setback: 4 ft (single-family). Structure Setback: 5 ft from any structure. Drain Safety: Virginia Graeme Baker Act required.
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