Riverside, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Riverside, CA, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes: for in-ground, above-ground >24 inches deep, and spas
- Issuing agency
- Riverside CEDD Building & Safety, (951) 826-5800
- Governing codes
- 2022 CBC §3109, CRC Appendix V, CA H&S Code §§115920-115929
- Above-ground exemption
- Pre-fab pools <24 inches deep AND <5,000 gallons
- Online portal
- Public Permit Portal (24/7 submittal)
Summary
Riverside requires a building permit from the Community & Economic Development Department for any in-ground pool, above-ground pool over 24 inches deep, or spa. Permits are issued under the 2022 California Residential Code (CRC) and California Building Code (CBC) Section 3109, as adopted by the City.
115922. (a) Except as provided in Section 115925, subject to subdivision (b), and consistent with Section 1596.814, when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming pool or spa or the remodeling of an existing swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with at least two of the following seven drowning prevention safety features: (1) An enclosure that meets the requirements of Section 115923 and isolates the swimming pool or spa from the private single-family home. (2) Removable mesh fencing that meets the ASTM International F2286 standard in conjunction with a gate that is self-closing and self-latching and can accommodate a key lockable device.
Full Breakdown
Applications go through the City of Riverside Public Permit Portal (riversideca.gov/cedd/building-safety/online-services/public-permit-portal). Plans must show pool location, dimensions, equipment placement, barriers/enclosure, and electrical bonding. Per CRC Appendix V and California Building Code §3109, the barrier and drowning prevention features must be installed, inspected, and approved BEFORE plaster or filling with water. Pool equipment may encroach into yard setbacks up to 4 feet if it does not exceed 48 inches in height. Prefabricated above-ground pools accessory to an R-3 dwelling that are less than 24 inches deep and hold under 5,000 gallons do not require a standard building permit, but still must meet barrier rules if water depth exceeds 18 inches (California Health & Safety Code §115921). Inspections include setbacks, rebar/steel, pre-gunite, pre-deck, final barrier, and final gas/electrical.
Violations & Fines
Building without a permit triggers double permit fees (investigation fee equal to the permit fee) plus stop-work orders under the California Building Code as adopted in RMC Title 16. Continuing violations can be cited as misdemeanors under Riverside Municipal Code §1.01.110 (general penalty: up to $1,000 fine and/or 6 months jail per day of violation). Code Enforcement: (951) 826-5633.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small inflatable or kiddie pool?
How do I apply?
Does my hot tub need a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Riverside
California rules heatmap·Compare Riverside to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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Pool Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Riverside County handle pool permits.