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

Chapter 15.24 of the Tehama County Code does not contain a separate definition or set of rules distinguishing above-ground from in-ground pools, and it does not state a local water-depth threshold. Its drowning-prevention requirements (Section 15.24.040) apply when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming pool or spa or the remodeling of an existing one, and Section 15.24.050 requires compliance with California Health and Safety Code Section 115920 et seq. The state safety-feature framework in Health and Safety Code Section 115922, and the enclosure dimensions in Section 115923, apply to private single-family residential pools and spas generally. In practice, an above-ground pool that meets the permit thresholds must still provide at least two of the seven safety features, one being an enclosure or safety cover, and any required enclosure must meet the 60-inch minimum height and gate standards of Section 115923. Some above-ground pool walls themselves can serve as part of a barrier, but ladders and stairways must be addressed so the structure functions as a compliant enclosure. Because the County defers to state law rather than writing pool-type-specific rules, owners of above-ground pools should confirm permit applicability and barrier compliance with Tehama County Building & Safety before installation.