Before You Build in Pomona, CA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in Pomona. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in Pomona. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
5 rules on file
Swimming Pools
5 rules on file
ADUs & Granny Flats
2 rules on file
Sheds & Outbuildings
3 rules on file
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
2 rules on file
Landscaping & Tree Removal
3 rules on file
Fences & Walls
Heavy RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsFence construction in Pomona requires submission of site plans, section drawings, and elevations to the Planning Division for approval. Plans must be consistent with the grading plan.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsThe Pomona Zoning and Development Code (effective July 2024) regulates fence and wall heights. Front yard fences are generally limited to 42 inches; side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet in residential zones.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsPomona follows CA Civil Code Section 841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act) requiring shared cost for boundary fences. Spite fences exceeding 10 ft are a private nuisance under CA Civil Code Section 841.4.
Retaining Walls
Some RestrictionsRetaining walls in Pomona require engineering plans and Planning Division approval. Height and material must be depicted in section drawings. Retaining walls along property boundaries may also require neighbor notification.
Pool Barriers
Heavy RestrictionsPool barriers in Pomona must meet CA Building Code Title 24 Chapter 31 requirements: 60-inch minimum height, self-closing/self-latching gates, plus at least one additional safety feature (cover, alarm, or self-closing doors).
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsAbove-ground pools in Pomona must meet the same CA Building Code barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools. A building permit is required for permanent installations.
Pool Permits
Some RestrictionsSwimming pool construction in Pomona requires a building permit from Building and Safety. Plans must comply with 2022 California Building Codes. Inspections are required at multiple stages of construction.
Hot Tub Rules
Some RestrictionsHot tubs and spas in Pomona must comply with CA Building Code barrier requirements. Covers may serve as one of the required safety features. Electrical work requires a separate permit.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsPer CA Swimming Pool Safety Act (H&S Code 115920-115929), pools require 60-inch barriers with self-closing/self-latching gates. At least one additional safety feature required: pool cover, alarm, or self-closing doors.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsPomona pools must comply with CA Swimming Pool Safety Act and Virginia Graeme Baker Act for drain covers. Two compliant barriers must be installed, inspected, and approved before filling.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsPomona allows garage conversions to ADUs under Ordinance No. 4281 and state law. Converted garages don't require replacement parking. The residential use of garages is regulated under the Zoning Code.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsPomona regulates ADUs under Zoning Code Section 830.A and Ordinance No. 4281. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are allowed. No minimum lot size. Height up to 16 ft detached, 25 ft attached. 4-foot side/rear setbacks required.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Some RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsThe Pomona Zoning and Development Code regulates accessory structures including sheds. Structures under 120 square feet may be exempt from building permits but must comply with setback and placement requirements.
Tiny Homes
Some RestrictionsTiny homes in Pomona are regulated as ADUs if permanent. CA Gov Code Section 65852.2 allows ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. Tiny homes on wheels may be classified as RVs and subject to parking restrictions.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport construction in Pomona requires a building permit and must comply with the Zoning and Development Code setback requirements. Carports cannot encroach into required setback areas.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOpen burning is prohibited in Pomona under the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 444 and the California Fire Code adopted in Chapter 22. Recreational fire pits may be used with restrictions.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsRecreational fires in Pomona must comply with LA County Fire Code and South Coast AQMD regulations. Open burning requires AQMD permits. Spare-the-air day restrictions apply throughout the South Coast Air Basin.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsPomona is served by multiple water providers following MWELO requirements. New landscapes over 500 sq ft must meet Maximum Applied Water Allowance calculations. CA Gov Code Section 65595 prohibits banning drought-tolerant landscaping.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsPomona regulates tree trimming under its Tree Preservation Program and Street Tree Policy Manual. Trees in historic districts require a Certificate of Appropriateness before trimming. Street trees follow ISA pruning standards.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsPomona has a Tree Preservation Program protecting significant trees including oak trees. Removal of protected trees requires an Oak Tree Permit or Minor Certificate of Appropriateness from the Planning Division.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Permit Guides for Nearby Cities
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Pomona.