Brentwood, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA, 15 U.S.C. 8001 et seq.) and California HSC 115928 require that all pool and spa drains, suction outlets, and submerged suction fittings be equipped with anti-entrapment covers certified to the ANSI/APSP-16 or successor ANSI/ICC/APSP/IAF-16 2017 standard. Single main drain pools (one drain without a backup) must also include at least one additional secondary anti-entrapment system: a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) that automatically disables the pump upon detecting a blockage; a suction-limiting vent system; an approved gravity drainage system; an automatic pump shutoff system; drain disablement; or a device or system that provides an equivalent level of protection. Pools with two or more properly spaced and independently plumbed main drains are generally exempt from the secondary system requirement but still need compliant covers on each drain. Brentwood's Building Division reviews drain compliance at plan check and verifies installation at final inspection. Drain covers have a stamped date of manufacture and a rated service life (typically 5, 7, or 10 years); owners must replace covers before they expire. Missing, broken, or uncovered drains are a serious entrapment hazard and should result in immediate pool closure until repaired. Public and semi-public pools (HOA, apartment, hotel) are regulated by the California Department of Public Health and Contra Costa Environmental Health under the California Code of Regulations Title 22 and have additional drain, circulation, and inspection requirements. At real estate transactions, drain cover compliance should be documented as part of the pool safety disclosure under HSC 115925 and Civil Code 1102.16.