Getting a pool permit in California takes 6–10 weeks in the City of Los Angeles (LADBS) and 2–4 weeks in unincorporated LA County, based on our 2025–2026 projects. Hillside lots add geotechnical review. From signed contract to swim-ready, plan 4–6 months — permits plus 8–12 weeks of construction.
Pool Permit and Build Timeline (2026)
| Phase | City of LA (LADBS) | Unincorporated LA County |
|---|---|---|
| Design + engineering | 2–4 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Plan check / permit approval | 6–10 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Construction | 8–12 weeks | 8–12 weeks |
| Contract to swim-ready | 4–6 months | 3–5 months |
Hillside Lots Add a Step
On a hillside lot, geotechnical review happens before plan check even starts. The soils report and engineering have to be accepted first, so build that time into your expectations if your yard slopes.
Permit Fees and Who Handles Them
Permit fees typically run $2,000–$6,000+, depending on the jurisdiction and scope. We handle all permitting in-house, and it's included in our installed pricing — you won't be standing in line at the counter or chasing plan-check corrections yourself.
Timing Tip: Start in Fall or Winter
If you want to swim by summer, start in fall or winter. Design and plan check run during the months you wouldn't be using the pool anyway, and construction wraps up as the weather warms.
