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

Lassen County Code Title 12 adopts the 2022 California Residential Code and prohibits constructing or installing a structure without a building permit from the building official. Under the California Residential Code, swimming pools - including above-ground and on-ground pools - that contain water more than 24 inches deep are regulated as pools and trigger barrier requirements. For above-ground pools, the pool wall itself can serve as part of the barrier if it is at least the required height, but any ladder or steps must be removable, lockable, or surrounded by a compliant barrier so the pool is not accessible to small children. Electrical connections (pumps, heaters, lighting) require bonding and a permit. Because Lassen County does not maintain a distinct above-ground pool ordinance, the requirements come from the adopted state building and residential codes plus the Swimming Pool Safety Act (HSC 115922-115929). Owners should confirm with Planning and Building Services whether a specific above-ground pool model and depth requires a permit and what barrier configuration satisfies the state safety-feature requirement.