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

Stanislaus County's Zoning Ordinance Section 21.08.065(E) provides that whenever a construction permit is issued for a new swimming pool at a private single-family home, it shall be equipped with safety features as required by the California Health and Safety Code, including future amendments. The County's Building Permit Division handout details these state requirements (HSC 115920–115929). For remodels or modifications, the permit requires that the existing pool, toddler pool or spa suction outlets be upgraded with anti-entrapment grates meeting the ANSI/APSP-16 standard (or successor standard designated by the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission). Any person entering an agreement to build a pool or spa, or to perform permitted work on one, must give the consumer notice of the requirements of the Pool Safety Act; the California Department of Public Health posts approved pool-safety information for consumers. Door exit alarms used as a safety feature must sound continuously for at least 30 seconds after an exterior door is opened, be audible throughout the house, and any manual deactivation (no longer than 15 seconds) must be located at least 54 inches above the door threshold. The Zoning Ordinance also limits private pool use to the occupants and guests of the premises, not for paid instruction or fee-based parties, unless conducted in compliance with the home-occupation rules of Chapter 21.94.