Apply to Build, Remodel, or Upgrade a Public Pool or Spa

Get step-by-step guidance on applying for a permit from Environmental Health Services.

This page applies to:

• Contractors (or others) working on public pools, spas, and spray grounds
• Projects that include building, remodeling, or upgrading equipment

This process does not apply to private pools or spas at single family residences.

Before you begin

• Contact the Environmental Health Services team to discuss your project and confirm you need a Permit
• Make sure you understand the overall process of permitting and inspections. This is explained on our website under Learn How to Build, Remodel, or Upgrade a Public Pool or Spa.
• See California Department of Public Health, California Swimming Pool Requirements for important information about state laws and regulations.

Get started

1. Prepare your plans

You will need to prepare 1 physical set of scaled plans or drawings. We do not accept digital plans.

We recommend getting an architect to design them. However, we do accept hand-drawn plans.

For new or remodeled enclosures or fencing, you will need to prepare 1 drawing or plan set showing:

• Layout of the enclosure or fence around the entire pool
• Elevation of each typical section of the enclosure and gates (for example: each type of gate/door, a wall, wood fencing, wrought iron fencing, etc.)
• Any climbable structures around the pool

See Pool Plan Submission Checklist (in the application packet) on our website for more specifics.

2. Get specification sheets and other materials

You will also need to provide information about the equipment you’re installing. This may include:

• Copies of manufacturer specification sheets for all new equipment
• Equipment list with manufacturer’s make, model, and other information
• Samples or description of construction materials

Check our website for the Pool Plan Submission Checklist (in the application packet) for more specifics.

3. Fill out the application and other forms

Our application packet contains several forms. The ones you need to fill out depend on your project.

If you’re building a new pool, spa, or spray ground, or making major renovations to an existing one, fill out:

• Construction Application for Public Pools/Spas/Spray Grounds
• Pool Plan Submission Checklist
• Pool Data Sheet
• Additional contacts for new and reconstructed pools & spas

If you’re making minor renovations to an existing pool, spa, or spray ground, fill out:

• Construction Application for Public Pools/Spas/Spray Grounds
• Pool Plan Submission Checklist
• Pool Data Sheet

Note: You don’t need to fill out a data sheet if you’re just replacing the fencing or enclosure.

If you’re replacing VGB covers on main drains and equalizers, fill out:

• Construction Application for Public Pools/Spas/Spray Grounds
• VGB Data Sheet

Note: VGB covers are also called suction covers, anti-entrapment covers, anti-vortex covers, or SOFAs. Hair can be pulled into pool drains and bodies can be trapped against pool drains if they are not protected with one of these approved covers.

If you’re not sure which data sheet applies, contact Environmental Health Services.

4. Request a pool plan review consultation (Optional)

For a fee, our team can:

• Meet on site to discuss construction options
• Look over your application to make sure it’s complete before you submit it

This can save you time later. You can fix any problems now before you start the application process.

Just remember that we’re not formally reviewing your project or making a decision to accept or reject it. We’re just providing feedback to help you improve your application before you turn it in.

5. Do a final check of all your materials

Keep in mind:

• You must submit all application materials at the same time
• If you forget a required part of the application, we have to reject it and you have to resubmit

The Pool Plan Submission Checklist (in the application packet) will guide you on everything you need.

6. Pay the fee and submit your application packet and materials

The amount you’ll pay depends on the type of project. See the current fee sheet.

You can submit your application and fee in person or mail it:

Environmental Health Services
3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 236
San Rafael, CA 94903

Hours
Monday to Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

What's next?

Environmental Health Services will review your application and do our best to respond to you within 20 business days. We’ll tell you if we approved your application or if your plans need changes.

To find out about the next steps, read our overview about the process for building, remodeling, or upgrading public pools, spas, and spray grounds.