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

Title 8 of the San Bernardino County Code adopts the California Building Standards (CBC, CRC Appendix AX, and the California adoption of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code), which carry through Health and Safety Code Sections 115920-115929. Any pool capable of holding water more than 18 inches deep is regulated, including soft-sided and frame above-ground pools. Information Bulletin IB-0007 from County Land Use Services requires an enclosing barrier at least 60 inches above grade on the outside, no opening that passes a 4-inch sphere, no climbable surface within the upper 45 inches, and a self-closing self-latching gate that opens away from the pool with the latch at least 60 inches above ground. Per HSC 115922, the pool must also have at least two of seven approved features (isolation fence, removable mesh fence to ASTM F2286, ASTM F1346 safety cover, exit alarms, self-latching door device, water alarm to ASTM F2208, or other approved means). A removable ladder alone does not satisfy the barrier requirement. Permits are issued by Land Use Services Building & Safety; confirm at (909) 387-8311.