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

Because Trinity County has no incorporated cities, the County government regulates all residential pool construction. Trinity County has adopted the California Building Standards Codes (the California Building Code and California Residential Code) through Title 15, Chapter 15.04 of its Code of Ordinances, so a building permit is required to construct an in-ground or permanently installed swimming pool or spa. State law reinforces this: under the Swimming Pool Safety Act, the drowning-prevention safety features are triggered "when a building permit is issued for construction of a new swimming pool or spa" at a private single-family home (Health & Safety Code 115922). In addition to the building permit, Trinity County's zoning code (Title 17) imposes location and setback rules. Section 17.30.070 requires pools in any "R" district to be on the rear half of the lot (or within fifty feet of the front lot line) and no closer than five feet to any rear or side line, unless the planning commission reduces those distances by use permit. Filter and heating equipment must be at least twenty feet from any dwelling other than the owner's. Applicants should contact the Trinity County Building Division/Planning Department in Weaverville before starting work to confirm current fees, plan-check requirements, and septic/water clearances through Environmental Health.