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

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (Public Law 110-140, 2007) was passed after a series of tragic suction entrapment deaths and injuries involving pool and spa drains. The law requires all public pools and spas to have anti-entrapment drain covers meeting ANSI/APSP-16 2017 (formerly ANSI/ASME A112.19.8) and, where only a single main drain exists, a secondary anti-entrapment system such as a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS), a suction-limiting vent system, gravity drainage, an automatic pump shut-off, or drain disablement. California adopted parallel and expanded requirements through Health & Safety Code 116064, which extends similar standards to residential pools and spas. Residential pools built or substantially altered after January 1, 2010 must have at least one anti-entrapment drain cover compliant with ANSI/APSP-16 or, if configured with a single main drain that is not an unblockable drain, must have one of the approved secondary systems. Main drain covers must be flat or domed, have warning labels, and be replaced at the end of their rated lifespan (typically 5-7 years, stamped on the cover). San Ramon enforces these requirements through building permits for new pool construction and equipment replacement. Pool service professionals in California are required to verify drain cover compliance during routine maintenance and report non-compliant installations. Spas, hot tubs, and wading pools also fall under VGBA. Replacement of outdated flat grate covers is a common retrofit; missing or broken drain covers require immediate closure of the pool until replaced. Community pools operated by HOAs in Canyon Lakes, Gale Ranch, and Windemere are classified as public pools and subject to the stricter commercial enforcement of VGBA, including dual drains and/or SVRS, regular drain cover inspections, and state pool operator certification requirements.