Oakley: Permits are Required for Some Above‐Ground Pools

The City of Oakley issued a notice Friday reminding residents that “most” above ground pools require a permit.

According to the release, more residents are interested in adding a pool to stay cool at home and that while most people are aware in-ground pools require a permit, most above-ground pools also require a permit. They say drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children, and the Building Code recognizes that the installation of safety features for pools can help save lives.

The Building Code requires a permit for any pool that holds over 18 inches of water, and has/or has an electrical element, such as a pool filter/pump. Such barriers are important part of the permitting requirement. Residents are encouraged to contact the Building Department with questions by calling (925) 625-7005 or by emailing [email protected].

The city also reminds residents that chemically treated pool water is not permitted to be discharged into the storm drain system as the drains provide a direct route to the Delta waters and are intended for only rain water. Illicit discharges to the storm drain system are subject to fines and are regulated by the City of Oakley per the storm water discharge permit from the state Regional Water Quality Control Board. For older pools that do not tie into the sewer lines, residents should de-chlorinate the water and slowly drain the pool into their landscaping.