Los Angeles County, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Los Angeles County, CA, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Permit Threshold
- 3,000+ gallons
- Barriers
- Same as in-ground requirements
- Small Pools
- Under 3,000 gal may be exempt
- Electrical
- Separate permit for pumps
Summary
Above-ground pools in unincorporated LA County holding 3,000+ gallons require a building permit from LA County Building & Safety. All barrier requirements (60-inch fencing, self-closing gates) apply equally. Smaller inflatable pools may be exempt from permits but not safety requirements.
115921. As used in this article, the following terms have the following meanings: (a) 'Swimming pool' or 'pool' means any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 18 inches deep. 'Swimming pool' includes in-ground and aboveground structures and includes, but is not limited to, hot tubs, spas, portable spas, and nonportable wading pools. ... 115925. The requirements of this article do not apply to any of the following: (a) Public swimming pools. (b) Hot tubs or spas with locking safety covers that comply with the ASTM International F1346 standard. (c) An apartment complex, or any residential setting other than a single-family home.
Full Breakdown
Above-ground pools in unincorporated LA County holding 3,000+ gallons or deeper than 24 inches require a building permit from Building & Safety. Smaller inflatable or temporary pools (under 3,000 gallons and 24 inches deep) are generally exempt from permits but still require safety barriers if a child could access the water. All above-ground pools must comply with the same barrier requirements as in-ground pools under the CA Swimming Pool Safety Act (HSC 115920-115929). Electrical connections must be permitted and inspected. Pools must not discharge water onto neighboring properties or into storm drains.
Violations & Fines
Installing a pool over 3,000 gallons without a permit carries standard building code violations with double retroactive permit fees. Inadequate safety barriers around any pool result in fines of $250-$1,000 per day. Illegal electrical connections create fire and electrocution hazards with serious code violations. Draining pool water into storm drains violates environmental regulations with fines of $1,000+.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for an above-ground pool in LA County?
Do above-ground pools need a fence?
Where can I drain my above-ground pool?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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