Are Californians Allowed to Drain Their Pool Water into the Street?

Undrained pools can cause a variety of setbacks for homeowners, including damage to surfaces and equipment, unbalanced water levels, and algae or chemical issues that are difficult to fix. Avoiding flooding and protecting your groundwater is easier when the pool is drained. However, the methods for draining vary from state to state. Continue reading as the San Diego pool and spa experts from San Diego Pools explain whether it’s illegal to drain your pool into the street in California as well as alternatives to consider.

Chemicals, Debris, and Other Harmful Factors

Local ecosystems and aquatic life are put at risk when homeowners drain water into the streets, causing the state of California to prohibit this method. Doing so would allow the untreated chemicals to flow directly into rivers, creeks, and oceans through storms and other methods.

The most common chemicals from drained swimming pool water are bromine, chlorine, algaecides, copper, and saltwater. Disinfectants, toxic heavy metals, and high salt concentrations from a saltwater pool will harm fish, plants, and animals. In some cases, they can kill the wildlife and plant life.

Public safety is also put at risk when homeowners drain swimming pool water into the streets. For example, the process could overwhelm local drainage systems, causing flooding, soil erosion, and other infrastructure problems. When drained water flows directly into local waterways, it remains unfiltered, posing a variety of safety concerns.

Chemical Neutralizers

Making pool water safe for discharge is the main priority for California residents, and chemical neutralizers are an ideal method for this. Before discharging the pool water into the storm drain system, the neutralizers will bring the water up to sufficient quality that meets both local and state regulations. This method protects aquatic life and local waterways from serious factors such as harmful pollutants.

When the chemical neutralizers are used correctly, they dechlorinate the water and bring it to a residual level. The water’s pH is adjusted within state and local ranges, and it will be free of algae, debris, and other harmful chemicals.

Landscaping Alternatives

Landscaping options can help people comply with local rules regarding draining swimming pool water, provided the water has been dechlorinated. For instance, you could build a decoratively raised garden that absorbs the water and slowly drains into your backyard.
A homeowner or professional landscaper could use a garden hose to drain water into the garden area. Another option includes installing permanent landscaping solutions like a dry well, creek bed, or planting bed that will direct water correctly to a collection point within the backyard, ensuring the discharge point remains lower than the swimming pool and making the soil porous for absorption. These steps will prevent a runoff of the water from happening.

Obtain Permits

Street discharges of swimming pool drainage aren’t completely prohibited within the state of California. Many cities allow this process as long as the proper permits are obtained and other conditions are met. For example, city manager approval and pool drainage permits are options. However, you need to contact your local public works or building department to verify which specific permit applies to city ordinances.

The available permits vary because each city faces different drainage conditions. Some counties issue permits solely based on hazard assessments, while others approve permits via self-portal services, and some require written permission from the city manager. 

If you’re unsure how to safely and legally drain your pool in California, San Diego Pools can guide you through proper drainage methods, local permit requirements, and environmentally responsible solutions that protect your property and community. Whether you need professional assistance or expert advice, our team is ready to help. Contact San Diego Pools today to keep your pool compliant, safe, and well maintained year-round.