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

Building permits in unincorporated Santa Barbara County are issued by the Planning & Development Department's Building & Safety Division, which administers and enforces the State and County building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical codes. Constructing an in-ground swimming pool or spa is regulated construction requiring a building permit, plan review, and inspections. In addition to the building permit, the swimming pool, spa, and appurtenant equipment must satisfy County zoning setbacks under the Land Use & Development Code (LUDC, Chapter 35): under Section 35.42.020, a swimming pool, spa, and appurtenant equipment shall not be located closer than five feet to any property line and may not be placed in a required front or side setback area. Because pools and spas are accessory structures, electrical bonding, drainage, and the drowning-prevention barrier features required by California's Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code 115922-115923) are checked at permit issuance and inspection. Properties on septic systems and properties in the Coastal Zone may have additional review. Applicants should confirm current requirements and fees directly with Building & Safety, since the County adopts updated editions of the California codes on a triennial cycle.