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Installing swimming pool in single or two family houses in California

For swimming pools in single- and two-family dwellings in California, the requirements are followed below.

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Installing swimming pool in single or two family houses in California

For swimming pools in single- and two-family dwellings in California, the maximum requirements include:

  • Maximum water depth for certain pools is 3'-6".
  • A uniform slope must not exceed 1 foot in 10 feet for water depths of 4½ feet or less.
  • Public pool barrier (enclosure) must be at least 60 inches high, no more than 2 inches of clearance at the bottom, and must not allow a sphere of 4 inches to pass through.
  • Pools must have at least two hydraulically balanced suction outlets per pump, spaced at least 3 feet apart, or utilize alternatives like skimmers for recirculation.
  • The system must be covered with anti-entrapment grates that meet APSP safety standards.
  • A swimming pool is any structure with water over 18 inches deep, intended for swimming or bathing, including spas and wading pools.

Note: Local amendments may apply, and certain requirements may differ for public pools, spas, or wading pools.

What the code says

"The maximum water depth shall be 3'-6". Any portion of a pool having a water depth of 4½ feet (1372 mm) or less shall have a uniform slope that shall not exceed 1 foot (305 mm) of vertical in 10 feet (3050 mm) of horizontal. In pools with water depths greater than 4½ feet (1372 mm) the slope shall meet the requirements in Figures 31B-1 through 31B-3." (2025 CBC Building Code)

“Swimming pool or pool means any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 18 inches deep. Swimming pool includes in-ground and aboveground structures and includes, but is not limited to, hot tubs, spas, portable spas and nonportable wading pools.” (2025 CRC Residential Code)

"A minimum height of 60 inches. A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two inches. Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four inches in diameter." (2025 CRC Residential Code)

“The swimming pool or spa shall either have at least two circulation suction outlets per pump...or be designed to use alternatives to suction outlets, including, but not limited to, skimmers or perimeter overflow systems to conduct water to the recirculation pump." (2025 CRC Residential Code)

"Suction outlets shall be covered with antientrapment grates, as specified in the ANSI/APSP-16 performance standard or successor standard designated by the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission…" (2025 CRC Residential Code)

Code references

  • Notes for Figure 31B-1/ Table 31B-1 (maximum depth and slope) – 2025 CBC Building Code
  • 115921, 115924, 115928 (definition, barrier, suction, and health and safety) – 2025 CRC Residential Code
  • 115921 (definition, applicability) – 2025 CBC Building Code

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Frequently asked questions

What is the definition of a swimming pool in San Francisco zoning?

A swimming pool in San Francisco zoning is any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 18 inches deep. This includes in-ground and aboveground pools, hot tubs, spas, portable spas, and nonportable wading pools.

What are the barrier requirements for residential pools in San Francisco?

Residential pools in San Francisco must have a barrier at least 60 inches high, with no more than 2 inches of clearance at the bottom. The barrier must not allow a sphere of 4 inches in diameter to pass through any gaps or voids.

What is the maximum water depth allowed for certain pools in San Francisco?

For certain pools in San Francisco, the maximum water depth allowed is 3 feet 6 inches. Additionally, any portion of a pool with a depth of 4½ feet or less must have a uniform slope not exceeding 1 foot of vertical rise in 10 feet of horizontal run.

Are anti-entrapment grates required for pool suction outlets in San Francisco?

Yes, pool suction outlets in San Francisco must be covered with anti-entrapment grates that meet APSP safety standards. This is to prevent accidents and ensure swimmer safety.

How many suction outlets are required for a pool pump in San Francisco?

Pools in San Francisco must have at least two hydraulically balanced suction outlets per pump, spaced at least 3 feet apart. Alternatively, systems like skimmers or perimeter overflow systems may be used for water recirculation.

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