Permit Required?
Required
Typical Fee Range
$600–$2,500
Includes building, electrical, and plumbing fees. New 2026 Title 24 rules require solar-ready heating.
Fee Method
Project-based
What's Required in San Francisco
- Required for all in-ground pools and above-ground pools over 18 inches deep
- New pools as of Jan 1, 2026 must use solar thermal or heat pumps as primary heating
- Mandatory pool covers required for any heated outdoor pool or spa
- Safety barrier (fence) at least 5 feet (60 inches) tall required with self-latching gates
- Electrical permit mandatory for pump bonding and underwater lighting
- Engineered shell plans and Title 24 energy calculations must be submitted for review
How to Get a Pool Permit in San Francisco
1
Step 1: Design for 2026 Title 24
Ensure plans include compliant heating (solar/heat pump) and smart controls.
2
Step 2: Submit to DBI
Upload architectural and engineered plans to the PermitSF portal.
3
Step 3: Planning & Energy Review
Await structural and energy efficiency approval (typically 4–8 weeks).
4
Step 4: Fee Payment
Pay building, electrical, and plumbing permit fees online.
5
Step 5: Multi-stage Inspections
Schedule Belly (Steel), Bonding (Electrical), and Final Safety inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, any pool 18 inches or deeper requires building and trade permits.
Total fees start around $600 and can exceed $2,500 including Title 24 review.
Gas heaters cannot be the primary heat source for new pools; you must use solar or heat pumps.