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

Mendocino County regulates swimming pool and spa construction through Title 18 (Building Regulations) of the County Code, which adopts the California Residential Code referenced in Section 18.04.025(C). Building permits are required under Mendocino County Code Section 18.08.010, and permits are issued and fees collected by the Planning and Building Services Department on the schedule of fees adopted from time to time by the Board of Supervisors. A typical pool project also requires separate plumbing and electrical permits for the circulation, heating, and bonding systems. Because the County administers the state code rather than a stand-alone local pool ordinance, pool construction must meet California Residential Code standards for structural design, drainage, electrical bonding, and the required safety barrier. Prefabricated above-ground pools that are entirely above adjacent grade and do not exceed 5,000 gallons are exempt from the building permit requirement. The barrier (fence or wall) must be inspected and approved by a County building inspector before the pool may be filled with water. Applicants apply through the Planning and Building Services Department in Ukiah; site, septic, or setback review may apply on rural parcels.