Swimming Pool Builder and Remodeler – Los Gatos, California

Mastering the art of hillside pool construction and luxury outdoor living in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

CSLB License #726779 | Since 1953 – Over 70 Years | 29,000+ Pools | Licensed • Insured • Bonded

Los Gatos Pool Construction & Renovation

Los Gatos is where the valley meets the mountains, creating one of the most beautiful—and challenging—environments for pool construction in the Bay Area. From the historic charm of the Almond Grove to the sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, building here requires a deep understanding of hillside engineering, strict safety codes, and the unique “Wildland-Urban Interface” (WUI) regulations.

Adams Pool Solutions has decades of experience navigating the Town of Los Gatos’ rigorous permitting process. We specialize in designing pools that not only complement the natural topography but are engineered to withstand the expansive clay soils common in the foothills. Whether you are looking to build a new infinity pool that captures the view or renovate a classic pool in a historic neighborhood, we deliver craftsmanship that stands the test of time.

Ready to Transform Your Backyard?

Schedule a complimentary consultation with our Los Gatos design team today.

Our Services in Los Gatos

Hillside & Historic Design

Los Gatos homes range from Victorian gems in the downtown historic districts to modern estates in the hills. We tailor our designs to match. For historic homes, we use classic coping and tile that respects the era. For hillside estates, we design infinity edges that merge the water with the horizon, using the slope to create dramatic visual effects.

Expansive Clay & Seismic Engineering

The foothills are known for expansive clay soils and proximity to the San Andreas Fault. We don’t just dig a hole; we engineer a vessel. This often involves over-excavation, importing non-expansive fill, and using robust steel reinforcement schedules that exceed standard code requirements to prevent cracking and structural failure.

San Jose Water Company Compliance

Most of Los Gatos is served by the San Jose Water Company. We are well-versed in their regulations regarding pool filling and water efficiency. We install Title 24 compliant variable-speed pumps and cartridge filters that save thousands of gallons of water per year compared to traditional sand filters.

Pools We’ve Built or Remodeled in Los Gatos

Any Questions?

Local Knowledge: Neighborhoods & HOAs

The Almond Grove

Working in this historic district requires sensitivity. Pools must be subordinate to the historic structure. We navigate the Historic Preservation Committee reviews to ensure your modern amenity doesn’t conflict with the neighborhood’s 19th-century character.

Rinconada Hills

This gated community has strict architectural guidelines. We work directly with the HOA to ensure that materials, setbacks, and drainage plans meet their high standards before we even submit for a town permit.

The Santa Cruz Mountains

For properties in the “Wildland-Urban Interface” (WUI), we use ignition-resistant construction materials for decking and equipment enclosures, a critical requirement for fire safety in the hills.

La Rinconada Country Club Area

Homes here often have viewshed protections. We design pool equipment pads and features so they don’t obstruct neighbor views, a common requirement in the CC&Rs of this area.

Belwood of Los Gatos

Known for its community cabana, homeowners here often want private pools that rival the community facilities. We understand the specific setbacks and easement requirements common in Belwood’s larger lots.

Hillside Development Standards

The Town of Los Gatos has a “Least Restrictive Development Area” (LRDA) policy. We help you site your pool within this area to minimize grading and avoid the costly and time-consuming Architecture and Site approval process whenever possible.

Strict Regulatory Compliance

Tree Protection

Los Gatos loves its trees. The Tree Protection Ordinance is strict. If your pool is near a protected Oak or Sycamore, we implement “hand digging” protocols within the dripline and set up protective fencing to ensure the tree’s root system is not compromised.

Pool Safety Act

Los Gatos enforces the California Pool Safety Act rigorously. You must have at least two of seven safety features. We typically recommend a combination of isolation fencing and state-approved safety covers or alarms to pass final inspection.

Pool BUILDER FAQs FOR THE TOWN OF Los Gatos

Do I need a grading permit for my pool?

In Los Gatos, if you are moving more than 50 cubic yards of dirt, yes. Most pool projects trigger this. We handle the grading permit application as part of our comprehensive service.

Can I build a pool on a slope?

Absolutely, but it requires specialized engineering. We may need to install piers or retaining walls to stabilize the pool shell. We work with geotechnical engineers to design a solution that is safe and code-compliant.

What are the rules for removing trees?

You generally cannot remove a ‘Protected Tree’ (typically oaks over 4 inches in diameter) without a permit, which is hard to get. We usually design the pool around the trees to avoid this issue.

How long does the permit process take?

It varies. A flat lot in a standard neighborhood might take 4-6 weeks. A hillside project requiring grading review or architectural approval can take 3-6 months. We track this daily for you.

Do you handle the 'Design Review' process?

Yes. If your project triggers a review by the Planning Commission or Historic Preservation Committee, we prepare the necessary drawings and represent you at the hearings.

What about fire safety in the hills?

We use non-combustible materials for decking and equipment enclosures in WUI zones. We also ensure that the pool provides a potential water source for firefighters if needed.

Can I use a sand filter?

We generally recommend cartridge filters. They are more water-efficient and do not require backwashing, which is a significant advantage given local water restrictions.

Is Adams Pool Solutions licensed in Los Gatos?

Yes, we are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We have a long history of working with the Los Gatos Building Department and Planning Division.

Visit Our Showroom from Los Gatos

Our Pleasanton showroom is a convenient drive from Los Gatos. We invite you to visit us to see our premium pool finishes and tile selections in person.

Driving Directions
From Los Gatos (approx. 35 mins):

Take CA-17 North towards San Jose.
Merge onto I-880 North towards Oakland.
Take the exit for CA-238/I-580 East towards Stockton.
Merge onto I-580 East.
Take the Hopyard Rd exit in Pleasanton.
Turn left onto Hopyard Rd, then right onto Owens Dr.
Turn left onto Old Santa Rita Rd to arrive at Adams Pool Solutions: 3675 Old Santa Rita Rd, Pleasanton, CA 94588.