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

Redding pool safety is layered. Electrical (California Electrical Code Article 680, adopted under RMC Title 16): overhead electrical conductors must keep a 22.5-foot vertical clearance from the pool and may not pass over a diving board (CEC §680.9 and Table 680.9(A)); telephone and cable lines may pass with a 10-foot clearance; underground wiring not associated with the pool may not run under the pool or within 5 horizontal feet of pool walls. At least one 125V GFCI convenience outlet must be located between 6 and 20 feet from the inside pool wall (6 to 10 feet for spas/hot tubs). Equipotential bonding of the pool shell, perimeter surfaces, and all metal within 5 feet of the water is required at pre-plaster inspection. Drains and circulation (federal): the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (15 U.S.C. §8003) requires every drain cover on a residential or public pool to meet ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 anti-entrapment standards; single main drains must have a secondary anti-entrapment system (vacuum-release device, gravity drain, or dual main drains 36 inches apart). Heaters (California Title 24 Part 6 energy rules, per the City brochure): gas heaters must hit 82% thermal efficiency; heat-pump heaters average COP at least 3.5; no continuous pilot light on natural-gas heaters (§110.5); outdoor heated pools must have a pool cover (§110.4(b)2); pumps must run only during off-peak periods (§110.4(b)3). Pool water discharge: the City brochure prohibits direct discharge to street or neighbor; instead route to an indirect-type dry well, subsoil irrigation, or pervious area on your own lot - and de-chlorinate before discharge to avoid an illicit discharge under the City's MS4 permit. Public/semi-public pools (apartment, HOA, hotel) are additionally regulated by 22 CCR Division 4, Chapter 20 and the Shasta County Public Health Department.