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

Brentwood enforces the California Building Standards Code (Title 24) and the Swimming Pool Safety Act for residential pools, including above-ground pools. Under Health & Safety Code section 115922, new or remodeled pools and spas capable of containing more than 18 inches of water must be equipped with at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features, including an isolation enclosure, removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286, an approved safety pool cover meeting ASTM F1346, exit alarms on doors leading to the pool, self-closing self-latching devices on doors leading to the pool, ASTM F2208 pool alarms, or other means of equivalent protection.

An enclosure used to satisfy the act must be at least 60 inches high measured on the side away from the pool, with no openings that allow a 4-inch sphere to pass and no gap exceeding 2 inches at grade. Gates must open outward, be self-closing and self-latching, with the release at least 60 inches above the ground. California does not exempt above-ground pools based on wall height or removable ladders. Brentwood requires a building permit for installation; the city's Community Development Building Division issues separate handouts for Above Ground Pools and for Barrier Requirements for Pool, Spa, and Hot Tub.

Plumbing, electrical, and gas work for the pool require their respective trade permits. Setbacks from property lines are governed by Title 17 of the Brentwood Municipal Code.