Prefabricated above-ground pools accessory to a single-family home that are less than 24 inches deep and do not exceed 5,000 gallons are exempt from building permits under the California Building Code as adopted by Santa Ana. Larger above-ground pools require permits and pool barriers.
Under California Building Code provisions adopted by Santa Ana, prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy (single-family home) that are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons, and are installed entirely above ground are exempt from building permit requirements. Larger above-ground pools require a building permit and must comply with the same barrier, electrical, and safety requirements as in-ground pools. All pools capable of holding 18 inches or more of water must have barrier protection per the California Swimming Pool Safety Act (HSC §115920-115929). Electrical connections for pool pumps and filters require an electrical permit.
Installing a pool requiring a permit without one is subject to code enforcement action, fines, and potential required removal. Failure to maintain pool barriers is a safety violation.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle above-ground pools.
See how Santa Ana's above-ground pools rules stack up against other locations.
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