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

The federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (15 U.S.C. sections 8001 through 8008) requires that all public pool and spa drain covers be certified to the ANSI/APSP-16 anti-entrapment standard, and that pools and spas with a single main drain include a secondary anti-entrapment system such as a safety vacuum release system (SVRS), suction-limiting vent system, gravity drainage system, automatic pump shut-off, or drain disablement. California incorporated and expanded these requirements through Health and Safety Code sections 116040 through 116068 (the California Pool and Spa Act) and related Swimming Pool Safety Act provisions. For residential pools in Pittsburg, new construction and significant remodels must include anti-entrapment compliant main drain covers and either dual main drains spaced at least 3 feet apart or an approved secondary entrapment avoidance system. Drain covers have a service life printed on the cover (typically 5 to 7 years) and must be replaced before expiration. Broken, missing, or uncertified drain covers are a leading cause of pool-related injuries and drownings. During resale, a qualified pool service technician typically inspects the drain system as part of the home inspection. The Pittsburg Building Division enforces drain safety through the pool permit inspection process, and public pools are also regulated by the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Division under Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations.