Above-ground pools in Laguna Niguel are regulated the same as in-ground pools: any structure over 18 inches deep is a pool needing a permit and a 60-inch barrier. Ladders and steps must be securable, lockable, or removable to prevent child access.
Handout 108 defines a swimming pool as any structure over 18 inches deep, expressly including above-ground and on-ground pools, so above-ground pools need a permit and a compliant barrier. Where the pool structure is used as the barrier or the barrier is mounted on top of it, the ground-to-bottom clearance may be up to 4 inches. When access is by a ladder or steps, either the ladder or steps must be capable of being secured, locked, or removed to prevent access, or they must be surrounded by a barrier meeting the standard 60-inch enclosure rules. When they are secured, locked, or removed, any opening created must be protected by a compliant barrier. All other barrier and gate provisions apply equally.
Installing an above-ground pool over 18 inches deep without a permit or a compliant barrier is a violation; the Building Department withholds fill approval until it complies. An unsecurable ladder or open access may trigger an action requiring draining.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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