Pools & Spas

The following information applies to swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.

Setbacks

For the purpose of measuring setbacks, the setback shall be from the right-of-way or property line to the water line. The following regulations must be met:

  • Swimming pools and spas must meet the required setback of 3 feet from the side and rear property lines or outside of any easements.
  • Swimming pools must be located beyond the front yard setback of 20 feet.
  • For corner lots, the setback is 12 1/2 feet from the street side yard property line. Swimming pool and spa equipment may be located 5 feet from the side and rear property lines or outside public utility easement.
  • Pool equipment shall be setback 5 feet from nearest property line.

Trees

The placement of a pool near a protected tree may require a Tree Permit. View the Tree Permit section for additional information the types of trees that are protected and how to obtain a permit.

Easements

Many properties have utility easements on which pools are not allowed to be placed. This easement area may exceed the dimensions of the required setbacks for your property. In some cases, the city has copies of some types of easements that may exist but it is advisable that you review your title report to help identify if any easements exist on your property.

Building Permits

All in-ground pools as well as above-ground pools that hold 3,000 gallons of water or more are required to obtain a Building Permit. Spas do not require a building permit but a permit is required for the electrical work. Other code requirements include safety fencing and gate alarms. Please contact the Building and Safety Division to learn more about obtaining a Building Permit.

Additional Information

This information is provided as a courtesy. In case of a discrepancy between this page and the Zoning Ordinance, the ordinance shall control. This information is provided by the City of Citrus Heights Planning Department as per current Zoning Code standards. Please contact the Planning Division for questions regarding these guidelines.