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

Per Redding's Residential Swimming Pools and Spas Homeowners Guide, the California Building Code as adopted by the City states that 'no person, firm, or corporation shall install any inground swimming pool without a permit.' Aboveground pre-fabricated pools holding 5,000 gallons or less and less than 24 inches deep are exempt from the building permit, but a separate plumbing permit is required for any gas line and a separate electrical permit is required for any pump, heater, or filter circuit. Setbacks (RMC §18.40.160 and §18.43.02(C) per the City brochure): in-ground pools at least 20 feet from front property line, 15 feet from a corner-lot street-side line, and 5 feet from rear property line, with all setbacks measured from the inside face of the pool wall. Aboveground pools must sit on the rear half of the lot and at least 5 feet from any side or rear property line. All pools must sit at least 5 feet from any residential or accessory structure, and an in-ground pool cannot encroach into an imaginary 45-degree line drawn down from the bottom of any building foundation unless a supporting engineered wall is built. Pool excavation may not encroach below a 1:1 slope down from any building footing or property line absent a stamped engineering design. Submittal requires 3 copies of a scaled plot plan (1/8 inch = 1 inch) plus 2 sets of engineer-stamped plans with steel schedule, equipment specifications, and electrical layout. Required inspections: pre-gunite/pre-deck, pre-plaster (to verify barrier, alarms, light niche bonding), and final. Spas and hot tubs with locking ASTM F1346 covers are exempt from the Pool Safety Act drowning-prevention features per H&S Code §115925, but still need electrical and gas permits.