Swimming Pools & Spas in San Diego County, CA (2026)

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

Verified from official government sources

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

Pool Permits

Above-ground and on-ground pools holding water over 18 inches deep are 'swimming pools' under unincorporated San Diego County's rules and must meet the same barrier and safety-feature requirements as in-ground pools. A barrier mounted on top of the pool wall may have up to a 4-inch ground/structure gap.

San Diego County Above-Ground Pools

Light Restrictions

California Health and Safety Code § 115922 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — pool barrier requirements)

769, Sec. 3. (SB 552) Effective January 1, 2025.) 115922. (a) Except as provided in Section 115925, subject to subdivision (b), and consistent with Section 1596.814, when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming pool or spa or the remodeling of an existing swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with a...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fencing & Safety Requirements

Unincorporated San Diego County requires a pool enclosure at least 60 inches high measured on the side facing away from the pool, with no more than a 2-inch ground gap (4 inches over a solid deck) and no gaps passing a 1-3/4-inch sphere. Gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing and self-latching.

San Diego County Pool Fencing Requirements

Some Restrictions

California Health and Safety Code § 115922 (Swimming Pool Safety Act — pool barrier requirements)

769, Sec. 3. (SB 552) Effective January 1, 2025.) 115922. (a) Except as provided in Section 115925, subject to subdivision (b), and consistent with Section 1596.814, when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming pool or spa or the remodeling of an existing swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with a...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗