Swimming Pools & Spas in Alameda County, CA (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 6 cities in Alameda County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Alameda County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Pool Permits

In unincorporated Alameda County, only small prefabricated above-ground pools under 5,000 gallons and less than 24 inches deep skip the building permit: anything bigger, or in-ground, needs one.

Above-Ground Pool Permits in Alameda County

Some Restrictions

Alameda County Code § 15.08.060 (CBC § 105.2, item 9)

Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep, are not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and are installed entirely above ground. 10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems. 11. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwel...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Unincorporated Alameda County enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code §§115920-115929). Pools deeper than 18 inches require an enclosure at least 60 inches high, with gates that self-close and self-latch at 60+ inches above grade. New or remodeled pools must have at least two of seven approved drowning prevention features.

Pool Fencing Requirements in Alameda County

Light Restrictions

California Health & Safety Code § 115923

An enclosure shall have all of the following characteristics: (a) Any access gates through the enclosure open away from the swimming pool, and are self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than 60 inches above the ground. (b) A minimum height of 60 inches. (c) A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches. (d) Gaps or voids, if any, do ...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗