Building a swimming pool in California typically requires a residential building permit. However, this will vary from county to county, as some may have additional license requirements that others don't. Regardless of the types of permits required, you must find out and obtain the licensure.
Pool fences in California need to be 5 ft tall with gaps between fence slats of 4" or less, gaps of 2" or less under the fence, and fence gates must be self-closing and self-latching. They can be 3-sided and attached to the house or other structure, but that doesn't count as one of the listed pool safety features.
California swimming pools and spas built or remodeled starting in 2018 must have a second safety feature to protect children from drowning. That's the main requirement in a new law that takes effect on Jan. 1, 2018, and aims to boost safety.
In California, residential swimming pools must have: Removable mesh fencing and a gate that is self-closing and self-latching and can accommodate a key lockable device. An approved safety pool cover. Exit alarms on the private single-family home's doors that provide direct access to the swimming pool or spa.
For single-family residential properties, fences are generally limited to three (3) feet in height in the required front yard or street. Behind the required front yards and corner street side yards, fences are generally limited to six (6) feet in height with one (1) foot of open/non-solid lattice material on top.
If my entire property is fenced, does the pool need a separate fence? Swimming pools do not necessarily need a barrier close to the water. If your pool is located in a fenced backyard, or other large fenced area, and that fence meets the legal requirements, you might not need an additional barrier closer to the pool.
In California, any pool regardless of its size or shape built or remodeled after 2007 requires a pool fence. This includes spas and portable, in-ground or inflatable pools that contain over 18 inches of water.
How close can you build a pool to your home? Local building codes typically require pools to be at least 5 to 10 feet away from the house foundation. Always check your county's regulations for specific requirements.