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

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 10 cities in Orange County, California.

Verified from official government sources

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

Pool Permits

Unincorporated Orange County requires a building permit before construction of a private swimming pool, spa, or hot tub begins, under the county's adopted Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code.

Orange County Pool Construction Permit

Some Restrictions

Orange County Codified Ordinances § 7-3-25

The Board of Supervisors of the County of Orange hereby adopts the Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code, 2000 Edition, as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials... The provisions contained in sections 7-3-3 through 7-3-17 of the Codified Ordinances shall apply to the Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code, 2000 Edition.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Orange County enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code §115920-115929) and adopted Ordinance No. 19-006 requiring both primary and secondary pool barriers for all residential pools in unincorporated areas with water depth exceeding 18 inches.

Orange County Swimming Pool Barrier Requirements

Some Restrictions

California Health & Safety Code § 115920 (Swimming Pool Safety Act)

The Swimming Pool Safety Act [115920 - 115929] ( Article 2.5 added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 925, Sec. 3.5. ) 115920. This act shall be known and may be cited as the Swimming Pool Safety Act. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 925, Sec. 3.5. Effective January 1, 1997.)

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗