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

Lake County's published barrier handout defines a 'swimming pool' as any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 18 inches deep, and expressly states this 'includes in-ground and aboveground structures.' As a result, an above-ground pool in the unincorporated County is regulated exactly like an in-ground pool under 2019 CBC Section 3109 as modified by the County of Lake. The Part A perimeter requirement (a fence or wall at least 60 inches high, with openings that will not pass a 4-inch sphere) applies, and the Part B requirement to isolate the pool from the home by an approved method before filling also applies. Because the structure is electrically energized (pumps, filters, lighting), the County's electrical-code provisions for outdoor pools also apply, including bonding of metal parts, GFCI protection, and required clearances for receptacles and lighting. A county building permit through the Building & Safety Division is the mechanism for review. The County handout does not carve out a depth or capacity exemption for portable or temporary above-ground pools other than the 18-inch water-depth threshold in the swimming-pool definition; portable spas and non-portable wading pools holding water over 18 inches are also included. Applicants should confirm current submittal and fee details with the Building & Safety Division before installing an above-ground pool.