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

Section 17.64.090, Swimming Pools and Spas, applies to any pool, spa, or other body of water more than 18 inches deep and to its related equipment (subsection A). The core rule is a set of setbacks measured to the outside wall of the water-containing portion itself, not to a surrounding deck or patio. Under subsection B.1, the pool must sit on the rear half of the lot as measured from the front property line, keeping it out of front yards entirely. Subsection B.2 requires a minimum 10-foot setback from a street side property line, reduced to five feet where the lot is enclosed by a masonry subdivision perimeter wall.

Subsections B.3 and B.4 set a five-foot minimum from the interior side and rear property lines and from the exterior wall of any dwelling unit on the same lot. Subsection C adds a separate setback for filter, heating, and maintenance equipment: it cannot sit within a street-facing required setback, within three feet of an interior side or rear property line, or within 10 feet of a neighboring dwelling's living area unless the equipment is inside a soundproof enclosure. Separately, Section 17.64.020(K) requires that pools, spas, and similar water features be fenced in compliance with the City's adopted Building Code.

Because the Building Inspector's enforcement duty under Section 17.128.020 covers erection and construction of structures under the Zoning Code, these setback and fencing standards are checked as part of the building permit review before pool construction can proceed.