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

The Plumas County zoning code does not single out above-ground pools. Whether a pool requires a permit depends on whether it is a 'structure' under Sec. 9-2.292, meaning the Planning and Development Agency or Building Department requires a building permit for it. A permanent, plumbed above-ground pool is generally treated as an accessory structure and must respect the yard and setback requirements for the parcel's zone (Sec. 9-2.418), the same as other accessory structures. Small, temporary, or portable wading pools that are not permanent structures typically fall outside the permit framework, but owners should confirm with the Building Department because the threshold turns on water depth and whether a permit is required by the Building Code. When a building permit is issued for an above-ground pool or spa at a single-family home, the California Swimming Pool Safety Act still applies: Health and Safety Code Section 115922 requires at least two of seven drowning-prevention features. For many above-ground pools, the elevated pool wall combined with a compliant, removable or lockable ladder and a self-latching enclosure or cover can form part of that protection, but the specific features must be approved at inspection. Above-ground pools must also avoid encroaching on required front, side, and rear yards and on easements.