Before You Build in Simi Valley, CA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Simi Valley enforces California Building Code pool barrier requirements mandating fences or walls at least 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates around all residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.

Simi Valley requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height and engineering for walls supporting surcharges. Retaining walls are common in the city's hillside areas and must meet structural and drainage standards.

Simi Valley's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yard setback areas. Taller fences may be approved through a variance or modification process.

Most residential fences under 6 feet in Simi Valley do not require a building permit. Permits are required for fences over 6 feet, masonry or concrete walls, and fences with electrical components such as automated gates.

California's Good Neighbor Fence Act (Civil Code 841) applies in Simi Valley, requiring adjacent property owners to share equally in the cost of maintaining boundary fences. The city does not mediate private fence disputes but enforces code compliance.

Hot tubs and spas in Simi Valley are subject to the same barrier, permit, and safety requirements as swimming pools. Portable hot tubs with locking covers may satisfy barrier requirements but still need electrical permits for hard-wired installations.

All residential swimming pools and spas in Simi Valley must be enclosed by barriers meeting California Building Code standards. Self-closing, self-latching gates with specific height requirements are mandatory to prevent unsupervised child access.

Simi Valley requires building permits for the construction of swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs. Plans must include barrier fencing, drainage, electrical bonding, and equipment pad details consistent with California Building Code requirements.

Above-ground pools in Simi Valley must meet the same safety requirements as in-ground pools. Pools with walls at least 60 inches may use walls as part of the barrier system.

Simi Valley swimming pool owners must maintain pools in a safe and sanitary condition, including proper chemical treatment, functioning equipment, and anti-entrapment drain covers. Unmaintained pools creating mosquito breeding conditions are subject to abatement.

Simi Valley allows garage conversions to ADUs under California's streamlined ADU law. Converted garages are exempt from replacement parking requirements, but must meet building code standards for habitable space including insulation, ventilation, and egress.

Simi Valley permits accessory dwelling units consistent with California ADU laws (Government Code 65852.2). ADUs up to 1,200 square feet are allowed on single-family lots with streamlined permitting and reduced fees.

Tiny homes on foundations in Simi Valley are regulated as ADUs or standard dwellings and must meet California Building Code requirements. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and may not be used as permanent residences on residential lots.

Simi Valley regulates carports as accessory structures under SVMC 9-30.080 (Table 3-2 setbacks; accessory structures may not cover more than 40 percent of any yard) and as covered parking under Chapter 9-34 (parking stall must be a clear 9 by 18 feet with no encroachment from posts). A building permit is required, and ADU-replacement carports must follow SVMC 9-44.160.

Simi Valley exempts small sheds and accessory structures under 120 square feet from building permit requirements. Larger structures require permits and must comply with setback, height, and lot coverage standards in the Development Code.

Open burning of yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited in Simi Valley. The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District and Ventura County Fire Protection District enforce strict no-burn policies with limited agricultural exceptions.

Simi Valley allows recreational fire pits and outdoor fireplaces on residential properties subject to Ventura County Fire Protection District regulations. Fire pits must maintain specific clearances from structures and combustible materials.

Simi Valley has a tree preservation ordinance that protects native oaks and significant trees from unauthorized removal. Permits are required to remove protected trees, and replacement planting or in-lieu fees are typically required.

Simi Valley requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not encroach on public sidewalks, streets, or neighboring properties. The city has a tree preservation ordinance protecting certain native and significant trees from unauthorized removal.

Simi Valley enforces water conservation regulations for landscape irrigation consistent with California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. The city periodically implements mandatory watering restrictions during drought conditions.