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

Modoc County's zoning ordinance lists a swimming pool as an accessory recreational use of a residential lot. In the Rural Residential (RR) zone, Section 18.30.030 expressly permits 'recreational facilities incidental to planned development such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, or clubhouse,' and pools generally qualify as accessory uses permitted with a one-family dwelling under Section 18.100.010. Construction of a pool or spa is then regulated as a structure under the building code. The Modoc County Building and Safety Department adopted the 2022 California Building Standards Code with local amendments by Ordinance No. 221-J (effective August 1, 2024), and that code package (the California Building, Residential, Electrical, and related codes) governs pool construction, electrical bonding, and required safety barriers. The Building and Safety Department, located at 203 West 4th Street in Alturas, issues building permits and lists application forms such as the Building Permit Application and Electrical Application on its website; a pool requires both structural and electrical review. Because Modoc is a rural county with many parcels on wells and septic systems, applicants should also confirm setbacks from leach fields and wells with Environmental Health. Permit, plan-check, and reinstatement fees are set by resolution of the Board of Supervisors (for example, Resolution No. 2024-32 covering permit expiration, reinstatement, and extension fees). Always confirm current requirements with the department before digging.