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

Westminster addresses above-ground pools in its residential accessory-structure standards, Municipal Code section 17.400.130. That section expressly provides that spas, whether in-ground or above ground, and above-ground pools are not considered "swimming pools" for the purposes of that section. Practically, this means the 15-foot side and rear setback that the section applies to certain elevated accessory features (such as pool slides, decks, and elevated play platforms) does not automatically apply to an above-ground pool in the same way it does to an in-ground pool's related structures. Above-ground pools must still comply with the City's general residential development standards, including the fence and wall height limits in section 17.300.030 (generally 6 feet, 3 feet in front yards) and any applicable accessory-structure height limits. A building permit and barrier compliance may still be required depending on the pool's size and depth: California's Swimming Pool Safety Act and the adopted building codes apply to pools and spas capable of holding water above a regulated depth, and an above-ground pool that meets the depth threshold must still provide approved drowning-prevention features. Because the classification affects setbacks, permitting, and barrier requirements, owners installing an above-ground pool should confirm with the Westminster Building Division (714) 548-3254 and Planning Division (714) 548-3247 how their specific model is treated before purchase or installation.