Selma, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in Selma, CA, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Barrier Requirement
- 60-inch total height from exterior grade
- Permit Trigger
- Permanent plumbing or electrical
- Property Line Setback
- At least 5 feet
- Exempt Depth
- Under 18 inches of water
Summary
Above-ground pools in Selma need 60-inch barriers like in-ground pools. Walls under 60 inches require additional fencing. Permits needed for permanent installations.
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.
(b) "Public swimming pool" means a swimming pool operated for the use of the general public with or without charge, or for the use of the members and guests of a private club. Public swimming pool does not include a swimming pool located on the grounds of a private single-family home.
(c) "Enclosure" means a fence, wall, or other barrier that isolates a swimming pool from access to the home. 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.
Full Breakdown
The City of Selma regulates above-ground swimming pools under the California Building Code and the Swimming Pool Safety Act. Above-ground pools with a water depth greater than 18 inches require the same barrier protections as in-ground pools. If the pool wall itself is at least 60 inches above the exterior grade and has no climbable features, the wall may serve as the barrier provided the access point (ladder or steps) can be removed, locked, or secured when the pool is not in use. Removable ladders must be stored away from the pool when not in use.
If the pool wall is less than 60 inches high, a separate fence or barrier must be installed to bring the total barrier height to at least 60 inches. Above-ground pools must be placed at least 5 feet from the property line and must not encroach on utility easements. Electrical connections must comply with the California Electrical Code, including GFCI protection. A building permit is required for above-ground pools with permanent plumbing, electrical connections, or decking. Temporary inflatable pools under 18 inches of water depth are generally exempt from permit and barrier requirements but must still be maintained to prevent stagnant water and mosquito breeding.
Violations & Fines
Installation of an above-ground pool without required permits may result in a stop-work order or correction notice. Pools without compliant barriers may be cited under the Swimming Pool Safety Act. The Building Department may require removal or modification of noncompliant installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for an above-ground pool in Selma?
Can my above-ground pool wall count as the required fence?
How far from the property line must an above-ground pool be in Selma?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Selma
California rules heatmap·Compare Selma to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
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Pool Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fresno County handle pool permits.