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

Building, plumbing, and electrical permits are required for the construction or substantial alteration of any in-ground or above-ground swimming pool, spa, or hot tub greater than 18 inches deep in unincorporated Alameda County. Applications are submitted to the Alameda County Building Inspection Department and must include site plans showing setbacks from property lines, easements, septic systems, and structures, along with details of fencing, gates, alarms, and equipment. Pools must comply with the California Building Code pool sections, the California Electrical Code requirements for bonding and GFCI protection, and the Swimming Pool Safety Act codified at Health and Safety Code Section 115920 et seq. The Safety Act requires at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features, such as an approved isolation fence at least 60 inches high, removable mesh fencing with a self-latching gate, pool safety covers, exit alarms on doors leading to the pool, self-closing/self-latching doors, alarms on the pool, or other approved means. Federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act) anti-entrapment drain covers are required on public and certain residential pools. Inspections are required at rough-in, pre-plaster, and final stages.