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

Shasta County does not have a separate, more lenient rule for above-ground pools. Under California Health and Safety Code 115921, a 'pool' includes both in-ground and above-ground structures holding water over 18 inches deep, so an above-ground pool that meets that depth is regulated the same as an in-ground pool. That means a building permit from the Building Division (reviewed under the 2022 California Residential Code), staged inspections including the electrical bonding inspection, and compliance with the County's Pool Barrier/Fencing Requirements (County Code 8.48 plus California Building Code Chapter 31B). The enclosure must be at least five feet (60 inches) high measured to prevent climbing, openings must not pass a four-inch sphere, and gates must be self-closing and self-latching. For above-ground pools, the pool's own wall can count toward the barrier where it provides the required effective height and the structure cannot be readily climbed; any attached ladder or steps must be removable, lockable, or otherwise secured so the pool cannot be accessed when unattended, and a ladder or stair landing that gives access must itself be gated to the barrier standard. Because the no-climb rule prohibits planters or climbable structures within five feet of the outside of the enclosure, equipment and furniture must be kept away from the pool wall. The same state drowning-prevention features (at least two of seven under HSC 115922) apply when a permit is issued.