South San Francisco, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool Permits (2026)
Swimming pool permit rules in South San Francisco, CA, also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations, set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Key Facts
- Permit
- Required for pools over 18 inches deep
- Fencing
- 60-inch barrier required for permanent pools
- Temporary Inflatable
- Under 18 inches generally exempt
- Contact
- Building Division (650) 829-6670
Summary
Above-ground pools over 18 inches in depth in South San Francisco require a building permit and must meet California pool safety fencing requirements. Temporary inflatable pools under 18 inches are generally exempt.
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.
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.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
South San Francisco's building code requires permits for above-ground pools deeper than 18 inches. All permanent above-ground pools must comply with the California Swimming Pool Safety Act fencing requirements (60-inch barrier). Temporary inflatable pools under 18 inches deep are generally exempt from permit requirements. Contact Building Division at (650) 829-6670.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for an above-ground pool in South San Francisco?
What are the rules for above-ground pools in South San Francisco?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in South San Francisco
California rules heatmap·Compare South San Francisco to another location·View the California swimming pools & spas overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Pool Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Mateo County handle pool permits.