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

In the unincorporated areas of Kings County, swimming pools for the private use of residents are listed as a permitted incidental use in the agricultural and residential zoning districts. Article 4 (Agricultural Districts), Table 4-1, lists "Incidental Uses located on the same site with a permitted use including, Swimming pools and tennis courts for the private use of the persons residing on the site and their guests" as permitted (P). Article 5 (Residential Districts), Table 5-1, likewise permits "Swimming pools for either individual, family or communal use." Because a pool is a structure, construction requires a building permit from the Kings County Community Development Agency, which administers the building ordinance (Chapter 5 of the County Code) and the California Building Standards Code. Building plans are submitted through the County's Online Permit Center. Statewide, the California Building Code exempts certain prefabricated above-ground pools accessory to a single-family home that are less than 24 inches deep, hold 5,000 gallons or less, and sit entirely above ground. The County's zoning and building review confirm setbacks, barriers and the drowning-prevention features required under the state Swimming Pool Safety Act before a final is issued. Always confirm current requirements with the Community Development Agency, as zoning approvals and building permits are handled separately.