Safety Rules: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do safety rules rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
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 βSouth San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
New pools in South San Francisco require a building permit. All pools must comply with California Swimming Pool Safety Act. Pool equipment noise must meet Ch. 8.32 standards (per the updated zoning code). Anti-entrapment drains required.
View full South San Francisco rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Virginia Graeme Baker Act required |
| Building Permit | - | Required for new pools |
| Pool Equipment Noise | - | Must comply with Ch. 8.32 noise limits |
| Contact | - | Building Division (650) 829-6670 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
South San Francisco FAQ
What pool safety equipment is required in South San Francisco?
New pools in South San Francisco require a building permit. All pools must comply with California Swimming Pool Safety Act. Pool equipment noise must meet Ch. 8.32 standards (per the updated zoning code). Anti-entrapment drains required.
Do I need a permit for my swimming pool in South San Francisco?
Building Permit: Required for new pools. Pool Equipment Noise: Must comply with Ch. 8.32 noise limits. Drain Safety: Virginia Graeme Baker Act required. Contact: Building Division (650) 829-6670.
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