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

Richmond enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act through the Contra Costa County / City building inspection process when a building permit is issued for new pool construction or remodeling. Under California Health and Safety Code §115922, every permitted swimming pool or spa at a single-family home must include at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features: (1) a compliant enclosure under §115923, (2) removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286 with a self-closing, self-latching gate, (3) a safety pool cover meeting ASTM F1346, (4) exit alarms on doors and windows with direct pool access, (5) self-closing/self-latching devices on doors with a release no lower than 54 inches above the floor, (6) an alarm sounding upon water entry, or (7) other approved means providing equivalent protection. A compliant enclosure must be at least 60 inches tall, with no more than a 2-inch gap between the ground and the bottom and no openings allowing passage of a 4-inch sphere. The local building official must inspect and approve the safety features before final permit sign-off. Above-ground pool walls 60+ inches tall may serve as the barrier if access ladders are removable or lockable. Senate Bill 552 amended the statute effective January 1, 2025.