Before You Build in Santa Monica, CA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Pool barriers in Santa Monica must be at least 5 ft (60 inches) per SMMC §8.12.150 and CA Building Code. All pools, spas, hot tubs, and ponds with water 18+ inches deep must be enclosed. Self-closing, self-latching gates required.

Fence permits in Santa Monica are regulated under the zoning code. Front yard fences, walls, and hedges are limited to 42 inches (3.5 ft). Height modifications up to 4 ft above limits available through administrative review; greater increases require a Director hearing.

Boundary fences in Santa Monica follow CA Civil Code §841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act) for shared cost. Spite fences over 10 ft are a private nuisance under CA Civil Code §841.4. Disputes are a civil matter between neighbors.

Santa Monica limits front yard fences to 42 inches (3.5 feet) and side/rear yard fences to 8 feet under SMMC §9.21.050. Ornamental attachments may add up to 12 inches.

Retaining walls in Santa Monica over 4 ft in Seismic Design Category D, E, or F cannot be constructed of wood. Fence height on top of retaining walls is measured from lowest grade within 3-ft radius. Engineering required for significant walls.

Pool fencing in Santa Monica must be at least 5 ft with no opening over 4 inches per SMMC §8.12.150. When replacing 50%+ of an existing enclosure, full current code compliance is required. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.

Above-ground pools in Santa Monica with water 18+ inches deep require a full enclosure per SMMC §8.12.150. The same barrier requirements apply as in-ground pools. Above-ground pools are classified as accessory structures in residential districts.

Santa Monica pools must comply with the CA Swimming Pool Safety Act (HSC §115920-115929). At least two safety features required. SMMC §8.12.150 requires 5 ft barriers for all water bodies 18+ inches deep. VGB Act drain compliance mandatory.

Building permits are required for pool and spa installation in Santa Monica. Plans must include barrier details, drainage, and safety features. Pools are classified as accessory structures in residential districts.

Hot tubs and spas in Santa Monica with water 18+ inches deep must be enclosed with a 5 ft barrier per SMMC §8.12.150. The same requirements apply as swimming pools. Covers may serve as one safety feature.

Santa Monica regulates ADUs under SMMC §9.31.025. Maximum size is 650 sq ft on lots up to 6,000 sq ft or 800 sq ft on larger lots. No development fees. Ministerial approval process.

Santa Monica allows garage conversions to ADUs under SMMC §9.31.025. Replaced parking spaces do not need to be provided. Conversions of existing structures are exempt from setback requirements.

Santa Monica regulates accessory buildings under SMMC §9.21.020. Sheds and similar structures in residential zones must comply with setback and height requirements. Sheds may not contain a kitchen unless approved as an ADU.

Carports in Santa Monica are regulated as accessory structures under the zoning ordinance. Building permits are required. In R1 districts, accessory buildings have specific setback and height requirements distinct from the primary dwelling.

Tiny homes on foundations in Santa Monica are regulated as ADUs under CA Gov Code §65852.2 and the local zoning code. Tiny homes on wheels are not permitted as permanent dwellings. The city must allow ADUs per state law.

Open burning is generally prohibited in Santa Monica under the adopted California Fire Code and SCAQMD Rule 444. Special Event Permits are required for outdoor activities involving open flame.

Portable fire pits on private property in Santa Monica must comply with South Coast AQMD regulations. Burns are prohibited on spare-the-air days. Beach fires are limited to designated areas. Fire pits must be attended at all times.

Trimming public trees in Santa Monica requires a Public Works permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, trim, prune, or injure any public tree without a permit. Trees must be protected during construction with guards or protectors.

Santa Monica has strict water conservation rules. Spray irrigation is prohibited 10 AM-4 PM daily. The Water Neutrality Ordinance (SMMC §7.16.050) requires new development to offset water demand. New sprinkler systems are banned for existing landscapes.

Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 7.40 (Tree Code) strictly protects public trees. No person may remove, cut, trim, or interfere with any tree on public property without a City permit. The Landmark Tree Program protects exceptional trees on both public and private property. Permits expire in 30 days.