Get Inspections for Building or Upgrading a Pool or Spa

Applicants for construction permits are responsible for scheduling inspections during the development process.

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 start

As part of the plan review process you need to schedule a series of inspections for your pool, spa, or spray ground.

Get started

Step 1. Figure out which inspections you need

You’ll need inspections at different stages of the construction process. The type of inspections depend on the kind of work you’re doing. Check your approval email to see the list of inspections you need. Here is a copy of the checklist used by the inspector at inspections. Make sure that all requirements are met before scheduling an inspection.

There may be 4 or more inspections:

• Plumbing/pre-gunite (sprayed concrete) inspection
  • Purpose: Check that exposed plumbing lines match approved plans
  • Timing: Before you cover plumbing lines with gunite
• Pre-deck inspection
  • Purpose: Check that deck materials and drainage match approved plans
  • Timing: Before you complete the deck
• Pre-plaster inspection
  • Purpose: Check that the following match your plans:
    • Pool dimensions
    • Step dimensions
    • Handrail dimensions
    • Coping
    • Pool depths
    • Tiles
    • Pool enclosure
    • Pool equipment
  • Timing: After you have electricity connected to the pump room and before you plaster over the work
• Final inspection
  • Purpose: Check that exposed plumbing lines match approved plans
  • Timing: Before you cover plumbing lines with gunite
  • All of the work is done
  • Chemicals are balanced (see our website for How to Operate a Public Pool, Spa, or Spray Ground).
  • You’ve sent the CDPH Anti-Entrapment Compliance Form (AB1020 Form) to Environmental Health Services

Step 2. Request an inspection from Environmental Health Services

Contact Environmental Health Services at least 1 week in advance to schedule an inspection:

Phone: 415-473-6907

In person at our our office:

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?

One of our team members will visit the site. Call Environmental Health Services staff to set it up.

If your project passes inspection:

• We will tell you and give you a copy of the inspection report
• You can continue onto the next phase of your project

If your project doesn’t pass inspection:

• We will tell you what changes you need to make and give you a copy of the inspection report
• You can schedule a reinspection when you’ve completed the required work