San Bernardino County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)

Installing a swimming pool, spa, or permanent water feature deeper than 18 inches in unincorporated San Bernardino County requires a building permit from the County Building and Safety Division. Permits are reviewed under the California Building Code, California Plumbing Code, California Electrical Code, California Energy Code (Title 24, which covers pool heating efficiency and pump requirements), and the countys Development Code. A typical permit application requires a site plan showing setbacks from property lines and structures, an engineered structural design for gunite or concrete pools (often stamped by a licensed engineer), a grading plan where cut or fill exceeds 50 cubic yards, an electrical bonding and GFCI plan, and a plumbing diagram showing equipment, drains, and anti-entrapment devices. In High Desert and mountain areas, soils reports may be required due to expansive soils, seismic conditions, or drainage issues. Properties on septic systems require Environmental Health Services review to ensure the pool does not compromise the septic field. Once construction begins, inspections occur at steel (pre-gunite), bonding, deck pre-pour, plumbing, electrical, and final. Final approval triggers the state pool safety requirements under Health and Safety Code 115920 and following sections, including the 60-inch barrier and at least one additional drowning prevention feature. Portable above-ground pools taller than 18 inches still require a permit.