California / Los Angeles

Pool Permit in Los Angeles, California

By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17 · 2 official sources

Quick answer

A building permit is required for all residential swimming pool and spa construction in Los Angeles. LADBS offers pre-approved standard plans to speed up pool permitting. New pools at single-family homes must include at least two of seven statutory drowning prevention safety features. A pool enclosure of at least 5 feet in height is required.

Permit required?

Yes, a permit is required.

When a permit is usually needed

Before constructing any residential swimming pool or spa

Permit cost and what affects it

Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.

Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.

Where to apply

Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a pool permit in Los Angeles?
A building permit is required for all residential swimming pool and spa construction in Los Angeles. LADBS offers pre-approved standard plans to speed up pool permitting. New pools at single-family homes must include at least two of seven statutory drowning prevention safety features. A pool enclosure of at least 5 feet in height is required. Always confirm with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety before starting.
How much does a pool permit cost in Los Angeles?
Fees are set by Los Angeles and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.
How long does a pool permit take in Los Angeles?
Processing time for a pool permit in Los Angeles varies by workload and project scope. Contact the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety for a current estimate.
Where do you apply for a pool permit in Los Angeles?
You can apply through the Los Angeles permit portal or contact the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety directly. The links are listed on this page.

Official sources

Last verified: 2026-06-17 Report an error on this page

Compare Pool Permit requirements across California localities