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.

Adams Pool Solutions - Swimming Pool Construction & Renovation

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.

    
 
 
         
   Tony DiTommaso 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a pool built about 14 years ago. It was Adams Pools that did the plaster work. Seemed natural to call them for one of our estimates to have our pool re-plastered.
After speaking with TJ, who we've worked with in the past, we made the decision to have our work done by Adams.
Each person we spoke with, Jason our project manager, Elizabeth in the office, and the team that did the work were outstanding. No complaints at all. While Adams was a tiny bit more expensive then some of the quotes we'd gotten, doing business with them was stress free, and the workmanship seems excellent. TJ gave us some opinions on several other companies to help with the start up (after plastering) and clean up the old tile. The whole project was great, the pool looks new after all this time. There is something to be said for dealing with a large company that's been in the business for decades. Our only hope is we get another 14 years this time around!
  
 
        
   Susan Russell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Adams Pool Solutions owners and employees are very nice people!  Their customer service is exceptional.  They will come back and fix anything after the initial service.  They even come out just to walk me through the equipment and other things they are not obligated to do.  I do not think any of the other pool companies I consulted before I hired Adams would do the same.  I hired them based on the job they did for the HOA pool.  Their bid was half of the other companies, and they have been in business for 70 years.  That alone says it all.  I am very happy with my big, beautiful blue pool!  I bought a home and the pool was a mess.  Adams added the wet deck and turned it into a saltwater pool. I highly recommend them!  Anyone who has the patience to deal with me politely is a rock star!!
  
 
        
   shanda Jam 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Adams Pool Solutions Acid Wash and Polish my pool plaster. From start to finish it was a very professional experience. Joel came to my house and was hands on every step of the way to make sure things went smoothly and they did. The quality was exceptional and the people were amazing and professional. Elaine and Joel communication was exceptional. Greg and Cleiber did an absolutely amazing and beautiful job!  Thank you for fulfilling the terms of warranty agreement related to my pool. Very highly recommend!
  
 
        
   Jennifer Wilde 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Adams Pool Solution fixed my scratched and etched pool surface to perfection! Elaine in the office was friendly and coordinated everything for  me.  Greg came out and did the work. He polished the whole pool and did an acid wash.  He was nice and very professional! My pool looks brand new!!
  
 
        
   Trisha Brickner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had our swimming pool replastered by Adams pools, we decided to go with the pebble tech, we also added mosaics to our pool and spa. We absolutely love it. Ron was our salesman and he answered every one of our questions and was very helpful all the way through the process. The crew working on our pool were always here and on time and very professional. Elaine also worked with us, we had excellent customer service from her. Everyone working with Adam's pool did an excellent job. We highly recommend Adam's pool. Our pool is absolutely beautiful and we are so happy that we used Adams pools. We would definitely use them again.