Glenn County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Above-Ground Pools (2026)

Glenn County does not publish a separate above-ground pool ordinance; above-ground pools fall under the California Building Codes adopted by reference in Title 15, Ch. 15.720, and the statewide California Swimming Pool Safety Act. Under the state codes a regulated 'swimming pool' is any pool, in-ground OR above-ground, intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water 18 inches or more in depth. Most permanent above-ground pools at or above that depth, and the electrical circuit for the pump/heater/filter, require permits from the Building Division; small portable/inflatable pools below 18 inches are generally not building-regulated, though they still pose a drowning risk. When a building permit is issued for an above-ground pool, HSC 115922 requires at least two of the seven approved drowning-prevention features. For above-ground pools the pool wall itself can serve as part of the barrier, but any ladder or steps must be removable, lockable, or otherwise secured so a child cannot climb in, and the overall barrier must still meet the height and no-handhold requirements of HSC 115923. Because the County repealed its local fence chapter (Ord. 1247, 2013), these state standards control. Confirm permit thresholds and fees with the Building Division before installing.