All questions, A–Z.

These materials should not be treated as noncombustible landscaping. Wood products, rubber mulch and synthetic lawns can provide fuel near a building. For areas requiring noncombustible surfaces, we recommend considering appropriate stone, gravel or paving instead, with material selection and installation reviewed for the property’s requirements.

References: CAL FIRE — Defensible-space and landscaping guidance ↗ · California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

No. Drought-tolerant and California-friendly plants use less water once established, but they still need the right soil, proper irrigation during establishment, pruning, mulch, weed control and seasonal attention. Their water needs change as they mature and as seasons change. We choose plants that suit your property and the level of care you want, and we explain what the landscape will need after construction so it grows in as designed.

Each has advantages. Pavers are modular, so individual units can be lifted and replaced, they handle minor ground movement well, and they offer many patterns and colors. Concrete offers a smooth continuous surface and modern looks such as sand-finish, broom-finish or colored concrete. Pavers and stone tend to cost more than basic concrete. The right choice depends on your style, use and budget, and we install both.

No. California's Swimming Pool Safety Act sets statewide requirements, but cities and counties enforce the applicable building codes and may have additional local rules about fences, gates and alarms. A detail approved in one jurisdiction is not automatically approved in another. We identify the barrier and safety requirements for your jurisdiction during design and confirm them through the permit and inspection process.

These properties may require additional evaluation of setbacks, erosion, slope stability, drainage and coastal hazards. Depending on the site, geological or engineering reports may be needed before the location and design of a pool, spa or retaining wall can be finalized. Applicable requirements must be established for the individual property.

References: Newport Beach — Coastal Development Review Procedures ↗ · Coastal Commission — Preparing a Complete Permit Application ↗

Yes. Certain improvements associated with existing single-family homes, including qualifying swimming pool and landscaping work, may be exempt. Exceptions can apply near coastal bluffs, beaches, wetlands and sensitive habitat, or where an earlier permit restricts future improvements. Obtain the responsible agency’s determination before relying on an exemption.

References: Newport Beach — Coastal Development Review Procedures ↗

No. Under California's Energy Code, installed natural gas pool and spa heaters cannot have continuously burning pilot lights. Modern gas heaters use electronic ignition, which saves gas and meets the requirement. Every gas heater we install uses electronic ignition.

Yes. We design and build your outdoor project under one coordinated scope. We start with a complimentary site visit, followed by a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget. After you approve the scope and budget and sign our design-build Home Improvement Contract with its payment schedule, we begin the agreed design and HOA plans. We review the design with you and document changes to scope, price or schedule. This keeps the design connected to construction cost and gives you one point of accountability.

Yes. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design carries General Liability, Workers’ Compensation and commercial vehicle insurance, and the contractor bond required for our California license. We can provide certificates of insurance, and you can check bond and workers’ compensation information through CSLB License #950714. These policies have their own terms and limits; ask your insurance agent about protection for your home and the work during construction.

Yes. We combine structure, evergreen foliage, contrasting plant forms, seasonal interest, hardscape and lighting instead of relying on one flowering period. Plant choices must fit the local climate: a shaded coastal garden and a sun-exposed La Quinta property need different palettes and irrigation. We design for the mature landscape and its seasonal care, not just the appearance on installation day.

Yes, in most cases, with smart design. We start with your priorities and the site's real constraints rather than trying to squeeze in every feature. A compact seating area, a longer and narrower pool, a plunge pool or combining functions into fewer spaces often creates a better result. Access, utilities and required setbacks can be decisive, so we assess the site in person before recommending a layout. Some of our best projects are on small, difficult lots.

Yes. For exercise, we design a straight, unobstructed swimming lane of adequate length and a consistent depth, with steps and benches placed out of the way. If your yard is too short for a long lap lane, a swim jet system can create resistance so you can swim in place in a smaller pool. Tell us how you swim and we will design the pool for it.

Yes. Outdoor improvements must preserve any required fire department access. Review may consider driveway width, turning space, grades, overhead clearance, gates and access to hydrants. These requirements should be checked while planning the overall outdoor layout, before the design is finalized.

References: LAFD — Hydrants and Access ↗

A tanning shelf can be a great place for children to play, but shallow water still requires constant adult supervision and protection from unsupervised access. We design the shelf's depth, transitions and relationship to deeper water carefully, and we never present it as a substitute for barriers or a safe place to leave children unattended.

Absolutely. Our design approach can combine carefully selected stone, decorative gravel, paving, architectural details and appropriately located planting. The goal is to make the area near your home look intentional and complement its architecture, while preserving color, texture and greenery where appropriate.

Yes, in many cases, with a structural design. Making a pool shallower, such as converting a deep diving end to a more usable depth, is a common remodel. Changing depth affects the pool's profile and may involve the shell, drains, steps and surrounding details. We examine the existing construction and your intended use before selecting a method, and the depth change is shown clearly in the plans and scope. Resurfacing alone does not change a pool's structural depth.

Yes. Existing coastal permits may contain conditions governing landscaping, open space, access or future improvements. Those conditions can continue to affect the property. Reviewing the permit history early helps identify whether the proposed renovation needs an amendment or other authorization before changes are made.

References: Coastal Commission — Permits, Existing Conditions and Compliance ↗

Often, yes, but it requires careful design. The grill's manufacturer requirements, ventilation, clearances to combustible materials, the cover's construction and building and fire codes must all be considered. Some grills require a vent hood under a solid roof. Not every barbecue is suitable under every cover. We design the kitchen and cover together and confirm the arrangement with the appropriate approvals before building.

Yes. Coastal review can address vegetation changes, sensitive habitat, grading and runoff. Landscape and hardscape plans may need measures that protect coastal waters and avoid increasing erosion or polluted runoff. These requirements should be considered together when selecting planting locations, irrigation methods, paving and drainage improvements.

References: Newport Beach — Coastal Development Review Procedures ↗ · Coastal Commission — Water Quality ↗

Yes. A property in California’s coastal zone may need coastal approval or a documented exemption in addition to building permits. This can affect projects in coastal Orange County and Los Angeles-area communities such as Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach. A beach-city address alone does not establish the requirements. We check the parcel, scope and responsible coastal authority before finalizing the approval schedule.

Yes. We plan equipment placement early, keeping it away from bedrooms, outdoor living areas and neighbors' patios where possible, and we choose quiet variable-speed pumps. Equipment needs clearances and service access, so it should not be enclosed wherever it happens to fit. Screening walls and planting can reduce visibility and sound. We design the equipment area to meet local requirements and manufacturer instructions while keeping it as unobtrusive as possible.

Not necessarily. The answer depends on the property’s fire-zone designation, approved fuel-modification plan, local fire and building requirements, the appliance and any private community restrictions. OCFA rules do not apply to every place we serve: Los Angeles-area properties and La Quinta can have different fire authorities. We check the responsible agencies for the address before including a fire feature. A nearby installation is not evidence that the same feature is allowed on your lot.

Often, yes, and mature trees are worth protecting when they are healthy and suit the new design. We assess trees before demolition and grading are planned, and we involve a certified arborist where needed. A tree shown as "retained" on a plan still needs protection during construction, such as fencing off the root zone and avoiding grade changes near the trunk. Our scope identifies tree protection measures and responsibilities.

It depends on the property’s zoning, required setbacks, barriers, easements and any HOA restrictions. A front courtyard is not automatically buildable just because it appears large enough. We confirm the applicable city or county requirements before recommending a front-yard or side-yard pool, then evaluate privacy, access, drainage and how the space will function.

Start by obtaining the approved plan. Replacement plants, new trees, screening hedges and changes to irrigation or planting layouts may need review before installation. Existing approvals can carry ongoing maintenance obligations. Los Angeles County Fire’s standard plan notes require future planting to follow its fuel modification guidelines and receive approval before installation.

References: Los Angeles County Fire — Approved Fuel Modification Plan Notes ↗

Yes. With a modern pool automation system, you can control pumps, heaters, lights, water features and schedules from a smartphone app, whether you are in the backyard or away from home. You can heat the spa on your way home or switch the pool lights to a favorite color for guests. We install and set up the system and show you how to use it.

Possibly. Turf-replacement programs depend on the water provider serving your address, current funding and the proposed design. Check your provider before removing lawn or starting work; many programs require advance approval. Orange County, Los Angeles-area communities and La Quinta do not all use the same rebate program. We can coordinate the landscape scope with the requirements you confirm, but a rebate is not guaranteed or assumed in the construction price.

Yes. With more than 3,000 completed projects since 1976, we can connect you with past clients whose projects are similar to yours. Ask us during your consultation. We encourage you to ask references about communication, schedule, cleanliness, how changes were handled and how the finished project has held up over time.

Possibly, but the answer depends on the appliance, fuel type, location, surrounding materials and local requirements. Manufacturer clearances and applicable fire-code restrictions must be considered. A gas appliance is not automatically approved for every location. Confirm the requirements before purchasing equipment or finalizing the design.

References: OCFA — Fire Prevention FAQs ↗

These improvements may be possible, but the proposed changes need to be evaluated. An existing pool does not automatically authorize additional excavation or changes beyond its approved plans. Review should consider the original coastal approval, proposed construction and grading, and whether an exemption or additional authorization applies.

References: Coastal Commission — Permits, Existing Conditions and Compliance ↗ · Newport Beach — Coastal Development Review Procedures ↗

Yes, as a supplemental heater. Under California's 2025 Energy Code, effective January 1, 2026, a new heated pool needs a qualifying primary heating system, such as a properly sized heat pump or solar heating. A gas heater can be added behind it, and many homeowners use one for fast spa heating. When a heat pump has a supplemental heater, the code requires controls that keep the gas heater off whenever the heat pump alone can meet the heating load.

Sometimes. A paver or stone overlay can be installed over existing concrete if the slab is sound, stable and drains well. The added height affects door thresholds, steps, drainage and where the new surface meets existing paving. Covering a slab does not fix cracking, settlement or drainage problems underneath. We evaluate the existing patio before recommending an overlay or a full replacement.

Yes. Electric infrared heaters, outdoor-rated ceiling fans, lighting and speakers can be integrated into patio covers, pergolas and louvered roofs when the structure is planned for them. Each requires appropriate electrical circuits and mounting, and heaters require clearances specified by the manufacturer. Planning these elements during design makes installation cleaner and avoids exposed wiring.

Not usually. Permeable pavers and other permeable surfaces allow water to soak through into a prepared base, which can reduce runoff. Their performance depends on soil, base design, the site's slope and maintenance. On hillsides, near foundations or on expansive clay soils, encouraging water to soak into the ground can be the wrong approach. We evaluate permeable paving as one part of a complete drainage design.

Yes. We can review your existing landscape, discuss potential changes and develop a coordinated plan that considers wildfire exposure, appearance and everyday use. Our approach draws on 50 years of experience building luxury pool and landscape projects. Request a Complimentary Site Visit to discuss your property and the requirements that need to be confirmed with your local fire authority.

Request a Complimentary Site Visit →

It can be done, but it carries more risk. Without a crack isolation membrane, shrinkage cracks and minor movement in the concrete can telegraph through the mortar and crack the stone or tile above it, and water can move more freely into the installation. Because premium stone and tile are a significant investment, Richard Lusk Landscape and Design installs RedGard under every mortar-set stone or tile installation on a concrete subbase.

Yes. Reviewing and refining the plan is a built-in part of our process. After we create your plan with the approved budget in mind, we meet with you to review it, make any necessary changes, and adjust both the plan and the budget accordingly. Making these decisions on paper, before construction starts, is far easier and less costly than changing work in the field.

Plan for the pool to be unavailable during most remodel work, and for construction areas to be off-limits. Structural work, resurfacing and equipment changes each have their own shutdown and return-to-use requirements. We explain the sequence and the conditions for reopening the pool. Do not swim simply because the pool has been refilled; the startup process and safety checks must be completed first.

Yes. A raised bar counter along the outdoor kitchen lets guests sit with the cook, and a swim-up bar or pool-adjacent bar creates a resort experience. Bar designs should include comfortable counter heights, knee space, shade and lighting. We design bar areas as part of the outdoor kitchen and pool layout.

Often, yes. We evaluate whether existing elements can be integrated, such as reusing a spa, keeping a sound patio, or matching existing paving, and whether replacing them would produce a better result. Construction access, demolition, utility routing and drainage are key considerations. Our design shows clearly what is kept, modified and new.

Yes, in the right pool. Slides and diving boards require specific depths, clearances and manufacturer requirements, and diving requires a pool designed for diving from the start. They can also affect your homeowners insurance. Many families now prefer jump rocks, ledges and shallow play areas instead. Tell us during design if you want a slide or diving board so the pool is shaped correctly.

Yes, in most cases. The site must support the spa's structure, plumbing, heating and circulation. A raised spillover spa, an attached spa at pool level and a separate freestanding spa each create a different relationship with the pool and deck. We evaluate your existing equipment capacity and the surrounding area, and our scope covers the structural work and deck restoration, not just the visible spa finishes.

Often, yes. Adding a tanning ledge (Baja shelf) to an existing pool is a structural modification that typically involves building up part of the pool floor or reshaping the shallow end. We evaluate the pool's existing depth profile, steps and structure to find the best location and size. We coordinate the new shelf with the pool’s circulation, entry and usable swimming area.

Yes. A lap pool is designed primarily for swimming exercise, so it is typically long and relatively narrow with a consistent depth suitable for swimming. Lap pools fit well along a side yard or property line and pair beautifully with modern architecture. We design the length, width, depth and wall finishes for comfortable swimming and can add features such as a spa at one end.

Yes. Many clients build in phases, such as the pool and backyard first, then the front yard or an outdoor kitchen later. The key is to design the whole property first, so the first phase includes the right utility sleeves, gas lines, electrical conduit, drainage and grades for future work. That planning avoids tearing out new work later. We will help you decide what to build now and what can wait.

Often, yes. We can assess changing a kidney-shaped pool to a more geometric shape, making a pool longer, shorter or smaller, and adding a spa or tanning shelf. Reshaping is a structural alteration, not a finish change. The existing shell, plumbing, site access and the proposed layout determine what is practical. We compare adapting the existing pool with rebuilding, then confirm the approach through site evaluation, engineering and permits before you commit.

Yes. Solar pool heating uses collectors, usually on a roof, to warm pool water with very low operating costs. Under California's 2025 Energy Code, effective January 1, 2026, solar is one of the qualifying primary heating paths for a new heated pool: for a single-family home, the collector area must be at least 60% of the pool and spa water surface area. Solar can also be combined with a heat pump. We help you decide whether your roof space and sun exposure make solar a good fit.

That may be possible. Extending a pool involves new excavation and structural connections to the existing shell; shortening it also requires a properly engineered solution. We review your available space, access, equipment and the condition of the existing shell, then compare the remodeled pool's usefulness with the construction involved. Sometimes a new pool is the better value, and we will tell you honestly.

Wood can be a beautiful choice where it is permitted and appropriate, but material selection must account for local building codes, sun and moisture exposure, maintenance and any fire-hazard zone restrictions. Alternatives include aluminum, steel and other non-combustible or low-maintenance materials. We review the structure's appearance, durability and relationship to the house and confirm the construction before ordering materials.

Yes, in most cases. Automation can be added to many existing pools by installing a control system, actuators on valves, and compatible equipment. Older pumps or heaters may need replacement for full compatibility. Adding automation is often part of a pool remodel or equipment upgrade.

Yes. We build block walls, property-line walls and garden walls as part of our landscape projects. Property-line walls may require a permit, a survey to confirm the line, and agreement with your neighbor if the wall is shared. Height limits vary by jurisdiction and HOA. We handle the permitting and construction and finish the wall to match your design.

Yes, where the site and approvals allow it. We can integrate an appropriate gas or wood-fired pizza oven into an outdoor kitchen or masonry feature. The selected unit determines structural support, clearances, venting and utility needs. Fuel choice must also comply with local fire, air-quality and community rules; a wood-burning oven is not automatically allowed at every property.

Yes, where the site evaluation, engineering and approvals support it. We plan hillside pools and landscapes in the communities we serve, including coastal Orange County and Los Angeles hillside neighborhoods. Soil conditions, access, drainage and nearby slopes or structures determine the approach; some projects need retaining walls or specialized foundations. We coordinate the required professionals and define those costs before treating a concept as ready to build.

Often, yes. Compact lots in both Orange County and Los Angeles-area communities may suit a plunge pool, a narrow lap pool or an integrated pool and spa. Setbacks, easements, equipment clearances, access and the remaining outdoor living space determine what is practical. We inspect the property before recommending a layout and avoid fitting a pool at the expense of safe circulation or usable seating.

Yes. A swim-up bar includes in-pool barstools or a submerged bench facing a counter, often connected to the outdoor kitchen. It requires careful attention to depths, structural support, drainage, lighting and how guests move between the pool and kitchen. It is a great feature for entertaining-focused pools.

Yes. We can design and build play areas, bocce courts, half-court basketball areas and other recreational spaces as part of a complete landscape, along with the surrounding hardscape, fencing and lighting. Each needs adequate space, proper base construction and drainage. Tell us how your family plays, and we will plan the space.

Yes. Rainwater can be directed into rain gardens, dry creek beds, bioswales or cisterns, where it can soak in or be stored for later use. This reduces runoff and helps recharge soil moisture. Rainwater capture must be designed carefully so water does not soak in near foundations, slopes or retaining walls. We evaluate whether it suits your property.

Yes. Converting to a salt chlorine generator is a common remodel upgrade. We evaluate whether your existing finishes, coping, decking and equipment are compatible with salt, and we install the generator and controls with your other equipment. Remember that a salt pool still produces chlorine and still requires regular water testing and care.

Yes. Pet-friendly landscapes include durable ground covers or pet-rated turf with good drainage, sturdy plants, paths along natural running routes, shade, water access and secure fencing and gates. We avoid plants known to be toxic to pets in areas they use. Tell us about your dogs or other animals, and we will design spaces where they and your landscape can both thrive.

Yes. Entertaining pools usually include generous shallow areas, a tanning shelf, wide steps or benches for sitting in the water, a raised spa, lighting for evening use, and a deck that connects easily to the outdoor kitchen, dining and lounge areas. We design sightlines from the house, sound from water features and how guests move through the space, so the whole backyard works for gatherings.

Yes. We design pools with wide, shallow steps, sturdy handrails, benches at comfortable heights, gradual entries, slip-resistant surfaces and level paths with good lighting. Warm water and a spa with easy entry can be especially valuable for therapy and comfort. Tell us about the needs of the people who will use the pool and we will design around them.

Yes. We often design around existing trees, patios, walls, pools or structures that are in good condition and worth keeping. We evaluate each feature for condition, compatibility with the new design, drainage and long-term performance, and the scope will clearly state what is retained and what is new. Keeping sound existing work can be a smart way to invest more in the features you care about most.

Leaks can come from plumbing lines, fittings, the shell, the skimmer, lights or equipment. Before any repair, the leak must be located, which often involves pressure testing and leak detection. Where a leak is part of a larger remodel, we address it within the project scope. Ongoing water loss can damage soil, decks and nearby structures, so a suspected leak should be investigated promptly.

Often, yes. Depending on the cause, targeted solutions such as new area drains, downspout connections, channel drains or regrading a section can solve the problem. In some cases, however, drainage is so tied to the existing paving and grades that a broader renovation is the more effective solution. We will explain the options honestly.

Yes, as part of the contracted design-build project. After the Home Improvement Contract is signed, we prepare the agreed plans and coordinate applicable HOA or private architectural submittals. Requirements vary among Coto de Caza associations, Orange County planned communities, Los Angeles-area private communities and La Quinta country-club neighborhoods. We confirm the actual association, documents, fees and review sequence for your property and define responsibilities in the scope.

Yes. We can design raised planter beds, herb gardens near the kitchen, fruit trees and edible landscaping that blends into ornamental planting. Raised beds are easier to maintain, warm up faster and allow you to control soil quality. We plan irrigation for edible gardens separately from ornamental zones because they need different watering.

Yes. Fountains, wall fountains, reflecting pools, ponds, bubbling urns and other water features add sound, movement and calm to courtyards, entries and gardens. They need a power source, a water supply or auto-fill, and access for maintenance. We design water features to suit your architecture and scale.

We can plan for outdoor entertainment by including conduit, power, mounting locations and protected spaces for outdoor TVs and speakers within your outdoor kitchen, patio cover or walls. Specialty audio-visual equipment is often installed by an AV contractor, and our design ensures the infrastructure is in place. Planning early avoids exposed wiring and visible equipment.

We can often closely match existing materials, colors and patterns, but exact matches are not always possible because products are discontinued and existing surfaces weather over time. Sometimes a deliberate contrast or a border that separates old and new looks better than an imperfect match. We will show you options and recommend the best approach.

Yes. Although we do not provide ongoing maintenance ourselves, we can share recommendations for pool service and landscape maintenance providers who serve your area. Choosing a qualified maintenance provider who follows the care guidance for your new finishes, equipment and plants protects your investment.

Yes. We can remove or fill in an existing pool as part of a larger landscape project. Cities generally require a permit, and the method matters: a full removal, where the shell is broken out and hauled away and the area is backfilled and compacted, is typically the best choice if you plan to build over the area later. We explain the options and their implications for future use of the space.

Yes. Replacing the deck is one of the most effective upgrades for an older pool. We often replace the coping at the same time so the edge and deck are coordinated, and we correct drainage and slope while the deck is out. Options include pavers, natural stone such as travertine, and decorative concrete. Our scope states how the new deck meets the pool and existing surfaces.

Yes. Common modernization upgrades include new pebble or quartz finishes, contemporary tile, clean-lined coping, a raised wall with sheer descents or scuppers, a tanning ledge, LED lighting, automation and a new deck and landscape. Sometimes reshaping the pool, such as squaring off a freeform pool, is the right step. We design the remodel to match the style of your home.

Yes. We regularly build from plans prepared by architects and landscape architects. Bring your plans to the complimentary site visit, and we will review them for constructability, drainage, structural requirements and cost. We then prepare a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget based on those plans, so you know what it will take to build them. If the plans need adjustments to fit your budget, we can refine them once you hire us.

Yes. We can incorporate proposed Zone Zero improvements into a broader pool and landscape project. This gives us an opportunity to coordinate paving, planting locations, drainage, irrigation and gate materials as one design. We can also identify work that should be prioritized and items that can be addressed in later phases.

Yes. Projects within California’s Coastal Zone may require a Coastal Development Permit, depending on the work and property conditions. Coastal review can apply to outdoor improvements, grading and significant vegetation changes, even when the house remains unchanged. The responsible planning agency determines whether a permit, exemption or other authorization applies.

Coastal Commission — Permit Applications and Exemptions →

References: Coastal Commission — Permits, Existing Conditions and Compliance ↗

Two sets of rules matter. Title 24 requires suitable circulation timing and controls. Separately, California’s Title 20 Flexible Demand Appliance Standards apply to covered new pool controls manufactured on or after September 29, 2025, including connectivity and scheduling capabilities. Not every control product falls within that scope, and the rules do not require every existing homeowner to replace a working controller. We check the specific equipment and explain the owner’s controls and applicable consent choices at handover.

References: California Energy Commission: pool controls ↗

Frequently, yes. Patio covers and other structures usually require a building permit, and outdoor kitchens and fire features with gas, electrical or plumbing connections typically require permits for that work. Fire-hazard areas may add further restrictions. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and HOA, so we identify the permits your project needs during design and obtain them before building.

Often, yes. Requirements depend on the city, the wall's height, what it retains, and whether there is a slope or a load such as a driveway, structure or pool above it. Many cities require a permit and engineering for retaining walls above a certain height or for any wall supporting a surcharge. We check your city or county’s current rules and include engineering and permits wherever they are required.

Yes. A new in-ground pool or spa requires the applicable building permit and inspections wherever we serve. The responsible agency may be a city building department or the county for an unincorporated property such as Coto de Caza. HOA approval does not replace that permit. We coordinate the plans, engineering and inspections defined in your scope and verify the requirements for the specific parcel.

Not necessarily. In many pool-and-spa combinations, one heating system serves both, with valves directing water to the spa or the pool. Under California's 2026 Energy Code, a new heated pool needs a qualifying primary heating system, such as a heat pump or solar, and a gas heater may be added as a supplemental heater, which many homeowners use for fast spa heating. The code has limited spa-only exceptions, but an integrated pool and spa is not automatically treated as a spa. We design the heating setup to comply and to suit how you use each.

A pool shell needs a structural design suitable for the site and the applicable permit requirements. A standard engineered plan may suit some lots; slopes, poor soils, nearby structures, raised pools and vanishing edges can require site-specific design. We identify the structural and geotechnical information needed, coordinate the appropriate professionals, and state engineering responsibilities and costs in your scope.

No. Most homeowners continue normal life during construction. We do need agreed access to the work area, the site access route, water and power, and we will coordinate key decision points and inspections with you. Before work begins, we review site access, pets, gate codes and work hours so the project runs smoothly whether you are home or away.

Yes. Pool pumps, filters, heaters, automation systems, salt systems, lights, outdoor appliances and many other products carry manufacturer warranties. Coverage depends on proper installation, registration in some cases, and following the manufacturer's maintenance requirements. We install products according to manufacturer instructions and provide the warranty information at handover.

Not automatically. The Board’s guidance allows qualifying existing trees to remain when properly maintained. Pruning, clearance from roofs and chimneys, and removal of dead branches and accumulated leaves are important. We recommend assessing valuable trees individually and involving a qualified arborist when substantial pruning is needed.

References: California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

Some projects require fire department review. The requirements depend on your address, proposed improvements, wildfire hazard designation, emergency access and any existing fuel modification plan. Your local building department and the fire agency serving your property determine which approvals are needed. Not every pool or landscape renovation requires the same review.

References: OCFA — Planning & Development Services ↗

Sealing is optional for most concrete pavers and recommended for many natural stones such as travertine. A sealer can enhance color, resist stains and help stabilize joint sand. It must be reapplied periodically. We recommend a sealing approach based on the material, its location and how you use the space.

Pool alarms that meet ASTM F2208 detect when a person or object enters the water and sound an alert. They are one of the seven drowning prevention features recognized by California law. Alarms are a backup layer, not a substitute for barriers and supervision, and they must be properly installed and maintained. We can include pool alarms as part of your safety plan.

A heat pump can be a good choice when it is sized for the local climate, desired water temperature, cover use and swimming schedule. Performance changes with air temperature, so coastal Orange County, Los Angeles hillsides and La Quinta need property-specific evaluation. Heat pumps generally suit sustained heating; an allowed supplemental heater can address loads the heat pump cannot meet under the required control sequence. We compare equipment ratings and your actual use before choosing capacity.

Spas are generally included in the pool-safety rules, but the statute has an exception for hot tubs or spas with qualifying locking safety covers. That does not remove every electrical, suction, building or local safety requirement. We confirm the classification and required protection for your actual installation with the building department.

References: California pool safety law (SB 552 enacted text) ↗

We build both. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design holds both the C-27 Landscaping and C-53 Swimming Pool licenses, so we can design and build your pool, spa, hardscape, walls, outdoor kitchen, irrigation, planting and lighting under one contract with one accountable team. Homeowners who hire separate pool and landscape companies often find that the two never quite fit together. We design the pool and the landscape as one property from the start.

Yes. We install gas fire bowls on pool walls, fire-and-water bowls that combine flame and spilling water, built-in fire tables and linear fire features. These features require gas lines, ignition systems and sometimes electrical controls, and they must meet manufacturer clearances and local fire rules. They create a dramatic focal point, especially at night.

Yes. Exterior carpentry and structures are part of our design-build services, including patio covers, pergolas, shade structures and decks, along with metalwork such as gates and railings. We design each structure to complement your home's architecture, coordinate engineering and permits, and integrate lighting, fans and heaters where desired.

Yes. We design and build pools, spas and complete landscapes in Aliso Viejo. Many Aliso Viejo homes are in planned communities with HOA architectural guidelines and sloped lots. We coordinate HOA submittals and city permits and design pools and outdoor living spaces that make the most of each yard.

Explore our Aliso Viejo project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, pool remodels and complete landscapes in Bel-Air. We consider privacy, views, terrace levels, access and the relationship to the home before choosing the finishes. Bel-Air is within Los Angeles; we confirm the parcel’s planning, building, hillside, tree and fire requirements and any private restrictions for the proposed scope.

Explore our Bel-Air project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools, landscapes and outdoor living spaces in the Beverly Hills Gateway area. Arrival paving, gardens, terraces and pool settings are planned as one property. Gateway is a neighborhood name rather than a separate permitting city, so we establish the correct city jurisdiction and any private design requirements from the parcel before preparing the approval path.

Explore our Beverly Hills Gateway project and planning guide →

Yes. We serve Beverly Hills with custom pool and spa construction, structural pool remodeling and complete landscape projects. We coordinate outdoor living, planting, paving, lighting and drainage around the architecture of the home. City jurisdiction is checked against the actual address, since a Beverly Hills mailing address does not always mean a property is inside the incorporated city.

Explore our Beverly Hills project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas, gardens and outdoor living spaces for Beverly Park properties. We coordinate estate scale, private community review, construction access, delivery arrangements and the underlying walls and drainage. Applicable Los Angeles planning and building requirements are established from the parcel, not just the mailing address.

Explore our Beverly Park project and planning guide →

Yes. We serve Brentwood in Los Angeles with pool construction, pool remodeling and complete landscapes. We plan swimming, dining, garden space and privacy together, and evaluate the existing pool and utilities before recommending major changes. Hillside conditions, trees, fire requirements and planning overlays are checked for the actual property.

Explore our Brentwood project and planning guide →

Yes. We build pools, spas, hardscape and complete landscapes in Corona del Mar. Many Corona del Mar lots are compact and close together, so plunge pools, spools, efficient layouts, careful access planning and privacy planting are common. Coastal conditions also shape plant selection and material choices. We bring 50 years of luxury pool and landscape experience to every Corona del Mar project.

Explore our Newport Beach project and planning guide →

Yes. We build pools, spas, hardscape and complete landscapes in Costa Mesa, including the Eastside, Mesa Verde and College Park neighborhoods. Many Costa Mesa homes have older pools and landscapes ready for remodeling, and we specialize in transforming them into modern outdoor living spaces.

Explore our Costa Mesa project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas, estate landscapes and outdoor living spaces in Coto de Caza. Our Coto de Caza Estate Pool, Landscape & Outdoor Living gallery shows a completed project in the community. Coto de Caza is unincorporated Orange County, so county approvals and the applicable association’s architectural and construction rules are reviewed separately. We plan access, drainage, slopes and the complete landscape together.

Explore our Coto de Caza project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas and complete landscapes in Dana Point, including properties with ocean views, bluff-top and hillside conditions, and gated communities with HOA review. Coastal exposure, wind, salt air and coastal zone requirements influence plant choices, materials and approvals, and we plan for them from the start.

Explore our Dana Point project and planning guide →

Yes. We serve Hancock Park with custom pools, pool remodeling and complete landscape projects. We pay attention to the home’s architecture, established planting, garden proportions and the relationship between the front entry and backyard. We verify whether the parcel is within the Hancock Park Historic Preservation Overlay Zone and coordinate any applicable Los Angeles preservation and building review.

Explore our Hancock Park project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools, spas, estate landscapes and outdoor living spaces in Hidden Hills. The plan considers the whole property, including privacy, access and any existing equestrian or recreation areas. Hidden Hills is an incorporated city; its permit process and the applicable private community review both need to be addressed, along with current fire and construction requirements.

Explore our Hidden Hills project and planning guide →

Yes. We serve Holmby Hills with custom pools, pool reshaping and complete estate landscape construction. We discuss which mature trees and garden features to retain and how new terraces, water and outdoor rooms relate to the home. We confirm the Los Angeles parcel requirements, including any protected-tree or historic-resource review that applies to the proposed work.

Explore our Holmby Hills project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools and landscapes in Huntington Beach, from Huntington Harbour to inland neighborhoods. Properties near the coast may involve coastal zone review, sandy soils or a shallow water table, which we evaluate during design. Coastal-tolerant plants and corrosion-resistant materials are important considerations for beach-area homes.

Explore our Huntington Beach project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas and landscapes throughout Irvine. Irvine's villages and planned communities typically have detailed HOA architectural guidelines and approval processes, and many newer homes have compact backyards. We design efficient, high-impact outdoor spaces, including plunge pools, spools and outdoor kitchens, and handle the HOA and city approvals.

Explore our Irvine project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build luxury pools, spas, pool remodels and complete landscapes in La Quinta. Our La Quinta Estate Pool & Outdoor Living gallery shows a completed project there. Shade, reflected heat, paving comfort, desert planting, irrigation and the way you use the property guide the design. We coordinate the applicable City of La Quinta and private community requirements for the site.

Explore our La Quinta project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools and landscapes in Laguna Beach, one of Orange County's most challenging and rewarding places to build. Laguna Beach projects often involve steep hillside sites, coastal views, limited construction access, geotechnical and structural engineering, fire-hazard and fuel modification requirements, and the city's design review process. These are exactly the kinds of technically demanding projects we specialize in.

Explore our Laguna Beach project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools, hardscape and landscapes in Laguna Hills. Laguna Hills properties range from flat suburban lots to hillside view homes, and many have HOA review. We tailor each design to the property's slope, access and community requirements.

Explore our Laguna Hills project and planning guide →

Yes. We build custom pools and complete landscapes in Laguna Niguel. Many Laguna Niguel homes are in master-planned communities with HOA architectural review, and many sit on sloping lots with views, which can require retaining walls, terracing and engineered pool designs. We coordinate HOA submittals and city permits as part of the process.

Explore our Laguna Niguel project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build landscape and outdoor living improvements in Laguna Woods within the work permitted for the property. For Laguna Woods Village, the relevant Mutual’s alteration rules and consent process are important alongside any city permit. We discuss walkways, patios, drainage, planting and other improvements that fit the home and the applicable community standards.

Explore our Laguna Woods project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools, spas and complete landscapes in Los Feliz. The home’s architecture, existing garden, slopes and available access shape the plan. We confirm the Los Angeles parcel requirements, including any hillside, fire, protected-tree or historic-resource considerations, before finalizing the construction scope.

Explore our Los Feliz project and planning guide →

Yes. We serve Manhattan Beach with custom pools, pool remodeling and landscape construction. On compact lots, we compare the water area with the room needed for seating, circulation, equipment and construction access. We coordinate the applicable city approvals and review coastal status, runoff and any work affecting the public right of way.

Explore our Manhattan Beach project and planning guide →

Yes. We are based in Newport Beach and design and build custom pools, spas and complete landscapes there, including Newport Coast and Corona del Mar. Our Crystal Cove and Pelican Hill galleries show completed work in Newport Coast. For your property, we review coastal status, access, HOA requirements and any slope or drainage conditions before defining the scope and approval path.

Explore our Newport Beach project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build luxury pools, spas, outdoor living spaces and landscapes in Newport Coast, which is part of Newport Beach. Our Crystal Cove and Pelican Hill galleries include completed Newport Coast projects. The actual lot determines the need for hillside engineering, coastal review, fire-related measures and HOA approval; those are addressed during project planning.

Explore our Newport Beach project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools and landscapes in Pacific Palisades, including outdoor scopes coordinated with a home renovation or rebuilding project. Existing pools, walls, utilities and site conditions must be evaluated before they are reused. We coordinate with the home team and applicable Los Angeles, coastal and fire review, without assuming a fixed or expedited approval timeline.

Explore our Pacific Palisades project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools and landscapes in San Clemente, from Spanish Colonial and coastal homes near the beach to hillside properties with views. San Clemente's Spanish Village by the Sea character inspires many of our Mediterranean-style designs. Projects may involve coastal review, HOA approval or hillside engineering, which we coordinate as part of our design-build process.

Explore our San Clemente project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build pools, spas and landscapes in San Juan Capistrano, including larger estate and equestrian-area properties where there is room for complete outdoor living environments with pools, outdoor kitchens, fire features and extensive planting. Larger lots often allow more ambitious designs, and we plan grading, drainage and access to match.

Explore our San Juan Capistrano project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas and landscapes in Santa Monica. We focus on usable outdoor space, privacy, circulation, material durability and a practical equipment layout. Santa Monica has its own permit process, and we check coastal, drainage, water and historic-resource requirements where they apply to the address and scope.

Explore our Santa Monica project and planning guide →

Yes. We serve Tustin, Tustin Ranch, Old Town Tustin and nearby North Tustin and Lemon Heights properties. A Tustin mailing address does not necessarily mean the parcel is inside the City of Tustin; unincorporated properties use Orange County review. We confirm jurisdiction, HOA requirements and site conditions before planning your pool or landscape.

Explore our Tustin project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas and estate landscapes in Villa Park. Villa Park's larger residential lots provide space for complete outdoor living environments, including pools with spas, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, sport areas and extensive planting. We design the entire property as one cohesive plan.

Explore our Villa Park project and planning guide →

Yes. We design and build custom pools, spas and complete landscapes in Yorba Linda, including hillside view properties and large estate lots. Yorba Linda projects often involve slopes, retaining walls, drainage and fire-hazard considerations in hillside areas, along with HOA review in many neighborhoods. We plan for these conditions from the first site visit.

Explore our Yorba Linda project and planning guide →

Yes. We carry Workers’ Compensation insurance for our employees. It provides benefits for covered work-related injuries and is an important part of hiring a properly insured contractor. It does not mean every possible homeowner or construction risk is covered. Our workers’ compensation information can be checked through CSLB License #950714, and we can provide current insurance documentation.

Yes. Our process includes completion and follow-up, and we remain available for aftercare after the project is finished. Warranty items are handled according to the terms in your Scope of Work. Small adjustments, such as irrigation schedules or lighting aim as plants grow, are part of making sure your landscape performs as designed.

Yes. We design and build complete landscapes without pools across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta. Projects can include front-yard and backyard renovations, outdoor living, hillside terraces, drainage, hardscape, kitchens, planting and lighting. We hold the C-27 Landscaping classification under CSLB License #950714 and bring Richard Lusk’s 50 years of construction experience to the work.

We design first for how you want to live, while considering the property’s long-term appeal. A coordinated pool, landscape and outdoor living area can improve how a home looks and functions, but a resale return is not guaranteed. Buyer preferences vary between coastal neighborhoods, hillside estates and desert homes. Durable materials, comfortable circulation, appropriate planting and sensible maintenance help the finished project remain useful over time.

No. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design does not provide ongoing yard maintenance or gardening service. We are a design-build construction company focused on designing and building new pools, pool remodels and complete landscapes. When your project is finished, we walk you through how everything works and provide care information so your maintenance provider can keep the property looking its best.

Yes. Demolition and site preparation are part of our design-build services, including removing old hardscape, planting, structures and pools. Pool removal can involve a partial or full removal depending on your plans and city or county requirements, especially if you plan to build over the area. We include demolition, haul-off and disposal as defined items in our scope.

Yes. We install TigerTurf as part of the agreed landscape scope, with the product, base, drainage, infill and edging specified for the intended use. Pet areas require particular attention to drainage and cleaning. Synthetic turf can become very hot in direct sun, especially in desert conditions, so we evaluate shade and barefoot use before recommending its location. It still needs maintenance.

Yes. We can include synthetic putting greens in your backyard design, with contoured base construction, cups, fringe and chipping areas. A putting green needs proper base grading, drainage and quality turf to roll true. It can be a fun feature that complements the pool and outdoor living areas.

We can plan for the cleaning system that suits your pool. Robotic cleaners are independent units that scrub and vacuum the pool and are very popular today. In-floor cleaning systems use pop-up heads built into the pool floor and must be designed and installed during construction. Pressure-side and suction-side cleaners are other options. We discuss cleaning preferences during design so the right plumbing is in place.

Yes. We plant large boxed specimen trees, such as olive trees and other mature trees, to create immediate shade, privacy and character. Large trees require planning for crane or equipment access, proper planting pits, drainage and irrigation, and careful placement relative to the house, pool and utilities. We source quality specimens and plant them to give them the best start.

Yes. 3D renderings help you compare the layout, scale, views, materials and outdoor rooms during the agreed design phase. We begin with a complimentary site visit and detailed scope and budget; visualization starts after you approve the budget and sign the design-build Home Improvement Contract. The scope defines the views and revisions included. Renderings illustrate the design and do not replace engineering, permit plans or physical material samples.

3D Renderings →

Yes. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design provides warranties on our work. The specific warranty terms for your project are described in our Scope of Work, so you know exactly what is covered before construction begins. Equipment, appliances and many materials also carry their own manufacturer warranties, and we provide that documentation at completion.

Yes. After a complimentary site visit, we prepare a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget describing the work, significant materials and equipment, inclusions and exclusions. If you choose to proceed, we sign the design-build Home Improvement Contract with its payment schedule before beginning design or HOA plans. The plan is developed to the agreed budget, and changes are documented as the design is refined. Your signed project documents define the work and applicable warranties.

At completion, we provide the documentation that helps you operate and maintain your project, including equipment lists, operating instructions and warranty information. Keep your approved plans, permits and inspection records with your contract, because they are valuable for future work and when you sell your home.

No. Before you hire us, we provide a complimentary site visit and a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget based on that consultation. Plans are created after you approve the scope and budget and sign our design-build agreement. Because the budget comes first, your plan is designed with the budget in mind. We then meet with you to review the plan, make any necessary changes, and adjust the plan and budget accordingly.

No. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design is a design-build construction company, and we do not provide weekly pool cleaning or maintenance service. When your pool is completed, we provide startup and care information and walk you through your equipment so you and your pool service provider are fully prepared.

Yes. We obtain the building permits required for the work we build, and we coordinate the plans, engineering and inspections that go with them. Permits protect you: they mean the work is reviewed and inspected, and unpermitted pools or structures can cause problems when you sell your home. Our Scope of Work states exactly which permits and approvals are included for your project.

Yes. We remodel pools across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta. Work can include new finishes, tile and coping; reshaping or changing length and depth; adding a spa or tanning shelf; upgrading equipment; and rebuilding the deck and landscape. Structural changes depend on the existing shell, access, engineering and permits. We begin by evaluating the pool so the proposed remodel has a sound construction plan.

As part of a landscape renovation, we evaluate existing irrigation and upgrade or replace it to suit the new design, including new valves, drip conversion, efficient spray nozzles, backflow devices and smart controllers. We do not offer standalone irrigation maintenance service, because we focus on design-build projects, but every landscape we build includes an irrigation system designed for the new plants.

Like most full-service pool and landscape builders, we combine our own team with trusted, qualified specialty trades where a project calls for them. Regardless of who performs a particular task, Richard Lusk Landscape and Design is responsible for the entire project under our contract, schedule and quality standards, and you have one point of accountability from start to finish.

Yes. We use the LATICRETE system of 3701 Fortified Mortar, HYDRO BAN and 254 Platinum for all waterline and submerged tile work, which includes tiled spas, spillways, raised walls that are wet by water features, and other tile in contact with pool or spa water. Consistent methods across every wet tile surface give the whole project the same level of protection.

Yes. When we replace waterline or submerged tile in a pool remodel, we remove the old tile, prepare the surface, rebuild and true it with LATICRETE 3701 Fortified Mortar as needed, waterproof it with HYDRO BAN and set the new tile with 254 Platinum. This gives a remodeled pool the same tile installation standard as a new one.

Yes. In addition to Orange County, we serve La Quinta and the Los Angeles areas of Bel-Air, Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills Gateway, Holmby Hills, Beverly Park, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Hidden Hills, Hancock Park and Los Feliz. We remain based in Newport Beach. Share your project address and scope so we can discuss the property and arrange a site visit.

No. Required coastal authorization is separate from building permits and HOA approval. Before construction begins, confirm that the project has all applicable approvals and has satisfied any conditions required before work can start. A building permit alone does not establish that coastal requirements have been met.

References: Coastal Commission — Permits, Existing Conditions and Compliance ↗ · Coastal Commission — Permit Appeal Process FAQs ↗

Swimming pool work must be performed under an appropriate California contractor license. The C-53 classification specifically covers swimming pool construction; the authority of another classification depends on its scope and the project. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design holds both C-53 Swimming Pool and C-27 Landscaping classifications under CSLB License #950714. Verify classifications directly with CSLB when comparing contractors.

It may. California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), or the applicable city or county ordinance, generally applies to new landscapes of 500 square feet or more and to rehabilitated landscapes of 2,500 square feet or more that require a permit or plan review. Local requirements can be stricter. Where your project triggers it, we prepare the required planting, irrigation and water-budget documentation as part of the design.

Yes. A cover reduces evaporation, which is the largest source of heat loss in a pool, so it keeps heated water warm and reduces water and chemical loss. Under California's Energy Code, outdoor pools and spas heated with electric or gas heat must have a cover, and state guidance says it must be fitted and installed by final inspection; unheated and solar-only pools are not subject to that requirement. Note that an ordinary thermal cover is not a safety cover unless it meets the applicable safety standard.

Many pool remodels do. Structural changes, new or modified plumbing, electrical work, gas lines, new heaters and some equipment changes typically require a permit, while a simple resurfacing may not, depending on the jurisdiction. California’s Swimming Pool Safety Act generally requires a qualifying combination of at least two drowning-prevention features when a building permit is issued to remodel a pool at a single-family home. Not every pair is allowed, and local requirements and statutory exceptions must be checked. We identify permit requirements for your remodel during planning.

References: California pool safety law (SB 552 enacted text) ↗

It depends on whether the pool already has heating. The code's trigger is not simply calling a project a "remodel" or "major renovation." If your pool already has heating equipment, the existing-heating exception to Section 110.4(c) may apply. If the pool has never been heated and you are adding heat, the new heating-source requirement applies. During our evaluation, we document your existing equipment so your remodel is planned and priced correctly.

No. A qualifying automatic safety cover can be one safety layer, but a cover paired only with a pool-entry alarm does not satisfy California’s required two-feature combination. We confirm the additional qualifying protection and any local barrier requirements during permitting. A cover must be correctly installed, closed and maintained, and it never replaces attentive adult supervision.

References: California pool safety law (SB 552 enacted text) ↗

No. It is not a blanket ban. Since January 1, 2026, a new pool heating installation must use a qualifying primary heat source, such as a heat pump or solar, but a gas heater is still allowed as a supplemental heater behind that primary system. Replacing an existing gas heater on a pool that already has heating is generally exempt from the new heating-source requirement. We explain exactly how the rule applies to your project.

No. Leaves, weeds and combustible debris can accumulate again, even on stone or paved surfaces. Regular maintenance remains essential. Zone Zero also complements the defensible-space requirements farther from the home; it does not replace applicable vegetation management in Zones 1 and 2.

References: CAL FIRE — Defensible-space and landscaping guidance ↗ · California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

No. Fire department approval addresses the requirements within that agency’s authority. Applicable city or county permits and HOA approvals remain separate. Likewise, an HOA-approved landscape plan does not establish that the project satisfies fire department requirements. Each applicable approval should be coordinated before the related work begins.

References: Los Angeles County Fire — Approved Fuel Modification Plan Notes ↗

No. HOA or private architectural approval and a city or county building permit are separate. A plan acceptable to one reviewer can still need changes for the other. We identify the required sequence for your address, coordinate the documents and make sure the versions used for construction reflect the applicable approvals. This is especially important in gated communities and estates with private construction rules.

Adding a pool can affect your homeowners insurance, including liability coverage and premiums, and some insurers have specific requirements for fences, covers or diving boards. Many homeowners also consider increasing liability coverage or adding an umbrella policy. Contact your insurance agent before construction begins so your coverage is in place when the pool is complete.

No. Low-voltage landscape lighting still requires proper transformers, wire, connections and installation, and special electrical code requirements apply near pools and spas. A low-voltage system does not permit arbitrary fixture placement or homeowner wiring around water. We coordinate the lighting system with the broader electrical plan and install it according to code and manufacturer instructions.

Explore Landscape Lighting →

Usually, yes. The code includes limited spa-specific exceptions: systems used exclusively for permanent spas in existing buildings with gas available, and systems used exclusively for permanent spas where there is inadequate Solar Access Roof Area as defined by the code. Portable electric spas that comply with California's appliance efficiency regulations are also excepted. An integrated pool and spa system is not automatically treated as a spa-only application. We determine how your spa is classified during design.

OCFA serves many Orange County communities, including Irvine, Coto de Caza and Laguna Niguel, but it does not serve every city. Newport Beach, for example, has its own fire department. Identifying the agency responsible for your address is the first step in determining the applicable requirements.

References: OCFA — Communities Served ↗ · Newport Beach — Fire Department ↗

Excavation, concrete work and hardscape cutting create noise and some dust. We control dust with wetting and containment practices, follow local work hours and keep the site clean and organized. The loudest phases, such as excavation and shotcrete, are relatively short.

No. Concrete still shrinks and moves, and no membrane can stop that. What RedGard does is isolate the finished stone or tile from minor cracks and movement in the concrete below, greatly reducing the chance that a hairline crack in the slab will show up as a cracked tile or stone. It does not bridge structural movement, so proper concrete construction, base preparation and movement joints remain essential.

Yes. Explore our pool, landscape and outdoor living project galleries on the Portfolio page, and follow @richardlusklandscape on Instagram for more examples of our work. During your consultation, we are also glad to discuss projects similar to yours in scope, site conditions or style.

Explore our portfolio → · Follow @richardlusklandscape on Instagram →

Not unless you are doing work that triggers it. The code is not a mandate to remove an existing gas heater or retrofit a pool that has no work proposed. What matters is whether you are installing heating for the first time or altering a pool that already has heating. Adding a heater to an existing unheated pool must comply with the new heating-source requirement; replacing a heater on an already heated pool is generally exempt.

The statewide framework covers qualifying structures in State Responsibility Areas and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones within Local Responsibility Areas. Requirements depend on your property’s location, rather than its city name alone. Check the State Fire Marshal’s mapping tools and confirm your property’s designation and applicable requirements with the local fire authority. Local standards may be stricter.

References: State Fire Marshal — Check your property’s fire hazard zone ↗ · California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

Yes. The approved framework includes these attached features when determining the protected area. Measuring only from the house wall can overlook areas that need attention. We review the relationship between the building, attached structures and surrounding landscaping when planning improvements.

References: California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

The permitted choice depends on your address, appliance and site. Gas features can offer convenient operation and less smoke than wood, but they still need the required approvals, clearances and safe installation. Wood-burning features can face additional air-quality, fire and community restrictions. We check the responsible agencies and manufacturer’s requirements for the property before specifying either type.

California law requires contacting Underground Service Alert (DigAlert, 811) at least two working days before digging so public utility lines can be marked. Private lines, such as those to a pool house, sprinklers, landscape lighting or gas to a barbecue, are not marked by DigAlert and may need separate locating. We gather existing utility information, complete the locating process and plan how affected lines will be protected or relocated. Homeowners should tell us about known lines and never dig to look for them.

Our detailed budget-first process is designed to keep changes to a minimum: the scope and budget are defined before plans are drawn, and the plan and budget are adjusted together during our review meeting before construction. If a change is still needed after the contract is signed, we discuss it before the affected work proceeds and document it in a written change order showing the effect on scope, price and schedule, as California law requires.

Size your pool around how you will use it. Lap swimming needs length; family play and entertaining need generous shallow areas and lounging space; a plunge pool suits small yards and cooling off. We also consider the yard's proportions, setbacks, deck space and how the pool looks from the house. A pool that is too large for the yard can make the rest of the outdoor space feel cramped, so we design the pool and surroundings together.

Begin with the main views and walking routes between the indoor living spaces and the outdoors. We repeat selected materials, colors and planting themes to tie areas together without making every space identical. The front entry, side yards and backyard each get a purpose within the overall plan. We design for daily use as well as entertaining, so the finished landscape feels practical and connected to the architecture of your home, not just attractive in a photograph.

A correctly configured smart controller can adjust irrigation using weather or soil-moisture information, but it still needs suitable zones, emitters and settings. We select and program the system for the property’s plants, soil and climate, with establishment care considered separately. Ask the actual water provider about any current controller rebate before purchasing; eligibility and funding vary by address.

Design the whole property first and invest in the things that are hard to change later: layout, drainage, structure, base preparation and utilities. Choose a few high-impact features rather than many small ones, and use premium materials where you see and touch them most. Phase work if needed, but install sleeves, conduit and gas lines for future phases now. We help you prioritize so your budget goes where it matters.

We talk with you about the needs of everyone who will use the pool before fixing the layout. Wide steps with handrails, benches, a beach entry, sitting ledges, grab bars and a smooth, level route from the house all improve access. Pool lifts are another option. We compare how each option affects swimming space, cost and maintenance so the pool truly works for your family.

We create a few deliberate connections: compatible paving, a related planting palette and a consistent lighting approach. The front entry still responds to the architecture of the house and to how people arrive, so we design the driveway, walk to the front door and side-yard transitions together. Planning the whole property first lets us decide where continuity adds value and where a different character works better.

We design sightlines from the kitchen, family room and main outdoor seating areas so adults can see the water easily. Tall planting, walls and structures can block views, so we evaluate them as part of the complete design. Clear views help, but they never replace an attentive adult actively supervising swimmers or the required barriers and alarms.

Put the bids side by side and compare scope line by line: quantities, materials, equipment models, exclusions and who is responsible for permits, engineering and HOA submissions. Check supporting work such as demolition, haul-off, grading, drainage, base preparation and restoration of access routes, not just the visible finishes. Where a bid is silent on an item, ask. The lowest price often describes a smaller or different project. We provide detailed written proposals so you can see exactly what you are buying.

Pool setbacks from property lines are set by the applicable city or county zoning and building codes and can also be affected by slopes, easements, structures and HOA rules. Equipment placement often has its own setback rules. Because these distances vary by jurisdiction and parcel, we confirm the exact setbacks for your address before designing.

Many families today prefer pools with a large shallow area for play and lounging, with a moderate deeper section, rather than a deep diving well. Diving requires specific depths and dimensions and a suitable board or platform, so if diving matters to you, tell us at the start. We design the depth profile around how you will actually use the pool, safe transitions between depths, and your site and budget.

A property can be subject to both coastal-resource protections and wildfire-safety requirements. Vegetation changes should be coordinated with the responsible planning and fire agencies, particularly near sensitive habitat or where approved landscape plans already exist. Fire-safety work should not automatically be assumed exempt from coastal review.

References: Coastal Commission — Wildfire Resilience ↗

The first year is the establishment period. New plants need consistent, appropriate watering, often more frequent than established plants, with schedules adjusted for the seasons. Watch for signs of stress, keep mulch in place, control weeds, and avoid heavy pruning until plants are established. We provide care guidance at completion; a qualified landscape maintenance provider can then keep your landscape on track.

A new plaster, quartz or pebble finish needs careful startup: frequent brushing, close monitoring of water chemistry and gradual balancing according to the finish manufacturer's instructions. Startup care helps the finish cure properly and look its best for years. We explain the startup process when your pool is filled, and your pool-care provider should follow it carefully.

Look for an active C-27 license, insurance, relevant construction experience, a clear design process and a detailed written scope. Compare how each contractor addresses drainage, walls, access, planting and maintenance requirements, not just the finished appearance. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design brings 50 years of experience to complete residential projects across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta. We also hold a C-53 Swimming Pool classification, so the pool and landscape can be planned together.

The best builder for your project is properly licensed and insured, experienced with comparable sites and clear about the written scope, budget and schedule. Richard Lusk brings 50 years of experience and more than 3,000 completed projects across his career. Our Newport Beach-based team serves Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta, with C-53 Swimming Pool and C-27 Landscaping classifications under CSLB License #950714. Review our portfolio and ask about work that relates to your property.

Call 800-808-7510, email info@richardlusk.com, or use the website’s inquiry form. Tell us your project city or ZIP code and what you would like to build. You can email property photographs or existing plans to help explain the site. You can provide an email address, phone number or both. We will use the contact details you provide to discuss your goals and arrange a complimentary site visit.

A cosmetic remodel focuses on finishes and appearance, such as new plaster or pebble, tile, coping and decking. A structural remodel changes or repairs the pool's structure or configuration, such as reshaping it, changing depth, adding a spa or raised wall, or repairing structural cracks. Many projects include both, and a worn finish can hide conditions that need further evaluation. The distinction matters because engineering, permits and construction sequencing differ.

Common signs include a rough, stained or chalky interior finish, cracked or missing tile, loose or damaged coping, a cracked deck, leaks, old and inefficient equipment, outdated safety features, and a layout that no longer suits how your family uses the pool. An older pool in any of our service areas may also need a layout and finish update to suit a renovated home. We evaluate the pool and recommend what is worth repairing, upgrading or replacing.

Start with the California Coastal Commission’s official boundary maps, then confirm your parcel with the local planning department. A city name or distance from the beach alone does not establish whether a property is covered. Online maps are useful screening tools, but some properties require a formal boundary determination.

Coastal Commission — Maps and Jurisdictions →

References: Coastal Commission — Coastal Zone and Local Coastal Program Maps ↗

Maintain consistent pool water chemistry, service equipment on schedule, adjust irrigation seasonally, keep drains clear, seal stone as recommended, prune plants appropriately, and address small issues before they grow. Hire qualified maintenance providers who follow the care instructions we provide. A well-maintained pool and landscape will look great and perform for many years.

Start by thinking about how you want your whole property to work: swimming, entertaining, cooking, relaxing, privacy and how guests arrive. Then contact Richard Lusk Landscape and Design at 800-808-7510 or info@richardlusk.com to schedule a complimentary site visit. We meet you at the property, learn your goals and evaluate the site. From that consultation, we prepare a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget. Once you approve the budget and hire us, we create a plan for the front yard, side yards and backyard designed with that budget in mind.

Go to the Contractors State License Board website at cslb.ca.gov and use the "Check a License" search. Enter the license number, business name or personal name. The record shows whether the license is active, its classifications, the contractor's bond, workers' compensation insurance status and any disciplinary actions. To verify Richard Lusk Landscape and Design, search License #950714.

Your written contract includes a payment schedule tied to defined work and materials. Apart from the lawful down payment, progress payments must not exceed the value of work performed or materials delivered. We review the payment milestones with the scope before you sign, and update the agreement in writing when approved changes affect the schedule.

References: CSLB contracts and payments ↗

We plan steps and level changes as part of how people move through the property, from the house to the pool, outdoor kitchen and garden. Comfortable step dimensions, materials, lighting, drainage and handrails where required are coordinated during design. Solving level changes early prevents awkward transitions that are expensive to fix after paving is installed.

They shape almost every decision. We study the yard at different times of day and consider both summer and cooler-season use. We place gathering areas where they are comfortable, protect important views, and think about how the water looks from the main living spaces of the house. Trees, buildings and shade structures change those conditions, so we balance open sun, sheltered seating and privacy before fixing the pool and patio positions.

First, we identify where the water comes from and how it moves across the property: over-irrigation, roof runoff, poor grading, compacted soil, subsurface water or a neighbor's runoff all require different solutions. A drain placed at the puddle may not fix the real cause. We assess the site, then design a solution, such as regrading, area drains, downspout connections, channel drains or subsurface drains, with an approved discharge point.

The three main types are cartridge, diatomaceous earth (DE) and sand filters. Cartridge filters are popular in Southern California because they filter well and do not require backwashing. DE filters provide very fine filtration but require more involved cleaning. Sand filters are simple but filter less finely. We select the filter based on your pool size, equipment and maintenance preferences, with safe and practical service access.

A real fit study looks at far more than the open grass area. Property lines, required setbacks, easements, existing structures, utility lines, slopes, access for equipment and drainage all affect the usable footprint. We assess the site in person and review your city or county’s requirements before treating any layout as buildable, and we leave room for comfortable decking, walking routes and equipment access as well as the water itself.

Before work begins, we establish a site-access and safety plan with you, including temporary fencing or barriers, protected household routes, and how open excavations are secured outside working hours. Tell us about children, pets, gardeners and anyone else who needs access. Conditions change as construction progresses, so we keep reviewing site safety throughout the project, not just on day one.

Start with how you cook and entertain, and how food, people and seating will move between the house and outdoor areas. We plan prep space, storage, the grill and other appliances, and seating before fixing the island's size, and we coordinate gas, electrical, water and drainage. A beautiful island can still be inconvenient if it blocks circulation or isolates the cook, so we design the outdoor kitchen as part of the whole backyard.

Low-water planting should suit the exact site. Coastal and inland Orange County and Los Angeles properties may support California-native or Mediterranean-climate palettes, while La Quinta needs plants selected for desert heat, reflected sun, soil and occasional winter cold. We group compatible plants by water needs and check mature size, exposure, maintenance and any fire or HOA restrictions. A plant sold as drought-tolerant is not automatically right for every location.

The right lawn depends on how it will be used, available sun, heat, water needs, soil, maintenance and any applicable restrictions. A coastal lawn and a La Quinta lawn can need different grasses and care schedules. We compare suitable natural turf with other ground covers or synthetic turf, and use lawn where it serves a clear purpose. We also check the water budget and local or HOA requirements before specifying it.

Great curb appeal starts with a clear, welcoming path to the front door, a planting design that complements the architecture, well-proportioned lawn or ground cover areas, quality paving for the driveway and walkways, and landscape lighting for evening arrival. We also consider address visibility, mailboxes, gates, walls and how the front yard connects to the side yards and backyard.

Modern landscapes emphasize clean lines, simple geometry, restrained material palettes and bold, sculptural plants. Common elements include large-format porcelain or concrete paving, linear water and fire features, steel planters, grasses, succulents and specimen trees, and integrated lighting. We design modern landscapes that extend the architecture of your home outdoors.

We plan a defined space for seating, shade, lighting and a useful connection to the house and outdoor kitchen. A view, planting or an approved fire feature can provide a focal point. Coastal wind, inland sun and desert heat affect when the space is comfortable, so we tailor cover, orientation and materials to the property rather than promise year-round comfort from one standard layout.

We combine several tools: layered planting, strategically placed trees, walls and fences within local height limits, patio covers and pergolas, and the placement of seating and the pool relative to neighboring windows. We look at views from your windows and from neighboring second stories, not just at the property line. The right combination depends on how quickly you want screening and what your jurisdiction and HOA allow.

Hillside drainage requires controlling where water goes, preventing it from soaking into slopes, and discharging it safely. Common measures include surface drains, V-ditches or swales, subdrains behind retaining walls, controlled downspout connections and erosion-resistant planting. On larger hillside projects, a civil or geotechnical engineer may specify the drainage design. We build drainage systems that protect your slope, home and investment.

We specify paving with appropriate texture for wet bare feet, slope the deck away from the pool for drainage, avoid trip hazards, mark steps clearly with contrast and lighting, and provide handrails where needed. Lighting is important for evening safety. We also plan furniture and walkway space so people are not crowded at the pool edge.

We assess the soil and intended planting rather than use the same preparation on every property. Work may include removing construction debris, relieving compaction, correcting drainage and using appropriate amendments where needed. Coastal sand, inland clay, imported fill and desert soils can require different approaches. Plant and soil testing, when warranted, guide the final preparation and irrigation plan.

We prevent settlement with proper excavation, removal of unsuitable soil, a compacted aggregate base of the right depth for the use, edge restraints for pavers, and drainage that keeps water from weakening the base. On fill soils or slopes, additional engineering may be required. Settlement is almost always caused by what is underneath, so that is where we focus.

We protect your home by planning access routes, covering and shielding nearby surfaces, controlling dust and runoff, keeping the site organized, and securing the work area at the end of each day. Our crews take care around existing structures, windows, doors and plantings. Our team brings 50 years of pool and landscape experience to the care of your property.

A hillside affects structural design, drainage, wall layout, access and how usable terraces relate to one another. Moving earth or adding the weight of a pool requires more than fitting features onto a flat sketch. Licensed engineers evaluate the site and design the structures, and we develop the pool, walls and drainage together. We also identify any investigations and approvals needed before the construction scope is finalized.

We select the compliance path that suits your property, size the heat pump or solar system to code, provide the sizing documentation for the permit, include the required cover and solar-ready plumbing, and program the controls so any supplemental gas heater runs only when needed. For remodels, we document existing heating equipment before deciding whether the new requirement applies. We confirm the compliance path and any local requirements with the responsible building department before finalizing the equipment schedule.

For a new heated pool, a proposal now needs to include a qualifying primary heating system with its sizing documentation, the required cover, solar-ready plumbing, compliant pump controls and, if a gas heater is included, the required supplemental-heater controls, not just a conventional gas heater. For a remodel, the existing heating equipment must be documented first. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design includes a code-compliant equipment package in every new pool proposal.

Most surprise change orders come from scope that was never defined: drainage, haul-off, access, engineering, utilities or details left vague in an early estimate. We prepare a detailed scope of work and budget before any plans are drawn, design the plan with that budget in mind, and adjust the plan and budget together during our review meeting. Because the work is defined in detail before construction begins, this approach reduces the likelihood of unforeseen change orders down the road.

Contact us as early as possible, ideally several months before you would like construction to start. Design, budgeting, engineering, HOA review and city or county permits all take time before construction begins, and coastal or hillside properties may need additional approvals. Starting early also gives you time to make decisions without pressure. Discuss your target season early so we can plan around the location, approvals and construction conditions.

Drainage matters while the site is open, not just after the landscape is finished. We plan for temporary runoff and exposed soil during construction, and for the permanent drainage routes that carry water away from your home, pool and hardscape. Water cannot simply be redirected onto a neighbor's property or assumed acceptable at the street. The approved plans and local requirements determine the right measures for your site.

After excavation, a cage of steel reinforcing bar is installed to the engineer's specifications, along with plumbing and electrical rough-in. After inspection, concrete is pneumatically applied (shotcrete or gunite) to form the walls, floor, steps and benches, and is carefully shaped and cured. The quality of steel placement, concrete application and curing determines how strong and long-lasting the pool will be.

Our sequence follows the LATICRETE system. First, LATICRETE 3701 Fortified Mortar builds up and trues the surface. Next, LATICRETE HYDRO BAN waterproofing membrane is applied over it. Then the tile is set with LATICRETE 254 Platinum thin-set mortar and grouted. Each layer is allowed to cure according to LATICRETE's published requirements before the next step and before the pool is filled.

For a single-family home, the solar compliance path requires a collector area of at least 60% of the pool and spa water surface area (65% for multifamily and nonresidential buildings). For example, a pool with 600 square feet of water surface would need at least 360 square feet of solar collectors. A separate exception applies to pools heated exclusively by solar with no backup heater. We evaluate your roof area and sun exposure to see whether solar is practical.

The pool can be filled only after the mortar, membrane, thin-set and grout have cured as required by the manufacturer. LATICRETE publishes specific cure times for submerged installations, which depend on the products used and on temperature and humidity, and grout type in particular affects how long the tile must cure before the pool is filled. We follow those requirements, because filling a pool too soon can compromise the tile bond.

High-quality pavers installed on a properly prepared and compacted base can last for decades. Paver longevity depends mostly on base preparation, edge restraint, drainage and the load on the surface. Individual pavers can be replaced if one is damaged, which is a key advantage of pavers over poured concrete.

After shotcrete or gunite is applied, the shell needs time to cure and gain strength before the interior finish is applied. During that period, tile, coping, equipment and decking are typically installed. The curing schedule depends on the concrete mix, the engineer's specifications and weather. We follow proper curing practices because they directly affect the pool's long-term performance.

A finish-only remodel, such as new interior surface, tile and coping, takes far less time than a structural remodel that reshapes the pool, adds a spa or rebuilds the deck and landscape. Permit requirements also affect the schedule. After we evaluate your pool and define the scope, we provide a project schedule specific to your remodel.

Timing depends on the review process, application completeness, required studies and any corrections or hearings. Certain local coastal approvals can be appealed to the Coastal Commission, which can add time and require further review. We recommend establishing the approval process early and confirming permit issuance and applicable appeal requirements before scheduling construction.

References: Coastal Commission — Preparing a Complete Permit Application ↗ · Coastal Commission — Permit Appeal Process FAQs ↗

Most shrubs and perennials fill in noticeably within one to three growing seasons, while trees take longer to reach mature size. Plant size at installation, spacing, soil, irrigation and care all affect how quickly the landscape matures. If you want a more finished look on day one, we can specify larger plants and specimen trees in key locations. We will discuss the tradeoff between immediate impact and budget.

A complete backyard generally needs more time than the pool alone. A straightforward pool may take about eight weeks of construction after permitting, but walls, drainage, outdoor kitchens, patio covers, paving and planting add work and coordination. Design and approvals are separate lead time. We prepare a schedule for the entire agreed scope and update you when conditions or approved changes affect it.

A straightforward pool may take about eight weeks of construction after the building permit is issued. That is a planning guide, not a promise for every project. Design, engineering, HOA review and permits come first; access, ground conditions, inspections, weather, equipment and finishes can affect the construction schedule. A combined pool and landscape project or major structural remodel may take longer. We provide a schedule for your agreed scope.

Filling a typical residential pool with a garden hose usually takes a day or more, depending on the pool size and water pressure. Once a new interior finish is applied, the pool is filled continuously without stopping to avoid marks in the finish, and then startup chemistry begins. We manage the fill and explain the startup process.

Permit timing varies by jurisdiction, the time of year, the complexity of the project and whether engineering, HOA approval, coastal review or other agency review is required. A straightforward pool on a flat lot moves faster than a hillside pool with retaining walls in a coastal zone. During planning, we tell you which reviews your property needs and build that time into the schedule. A straightforward pool may take about eight weeks of construction after permitting; the actual scope, access, inspections and site conditions determine the schedule.

Equipment life depends on the quality of the product, how it is installed, water chemistry, how many hours it runs and how well it is maintained. Pumps, heaters, salt cells and automation components all have different service lives and manufacturer warranties. Proper sizing, balanced water and routine service extend equipment life. Your handover package includes the manufacturer warranty information for each component.

The timeline depends on the size of the project, how quickly decisions are made, and whether engineering, surveys or HOA review are needed. Our process moves in clear steps: a complimentary site visit, a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget, your approval and hiring, the plan, and a review meeting where we make changes and adjust the plan and budget. Because the scope and budget are settled first, the design phase is focused and efficient. We give you a realistic schedule for your property at the start.

Richard Lusk has been in the landscape and swimming pool business since June 1976. He brings 50 years of experience building luxury pool and landscape projects and has completed more than 3,000 projects over his career. That experience spans different locations; today Richard Lusk Landscape and Design is based in Newport Beach and serves Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta.

Richard Lusk has completed more than 3,000 landscape and pool projects over his career, which began in June 1976. Those projects include custom pools and spas, pool remodeling, complete front-yard and backyard transformations, hardscape, retaining walls, drainage, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, patio covers and landscape lighting. Today Richard Lusk Landscape and Design is based in Newport Beach and serves Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta.

Every property is different, so we do not publish prices. Cost depends on the size and type of pool, site access, soil and slope, retaining walls, drainage, utilities, outdoor structures, finish selections and how much of the property is included. Instead of a ballpark guess, we provide a complimentary site visit and a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget for your actual property. Once you approve the budget and hire us, we design your plan with that budget in mind.

We do not publish cost estimates because operating costs depend on pool size, heating use, utility rates, equipment efficiency and how many hours the pump runs. A variable-speed pump, a cover on a heated pool, an efficient heat pump or solar heating (now generally required as the primary heat source for new heated pools in California) and smart schedules are the most effective ways to keep operating costs down. We design every equipment system with efficiency in mind.

It matters from day one. A plant that fits nicely at installation may later block a path, crowd pool equipment, shade a solar panel or need constant pruning. We select plants based on their mature height and spread relative to the house, pool, property lines and neighboring plants. Container size at installation answers a different question: how developed the plant looks on day one. We discuss both when reviewing your planting plan.

For a typical California home improvement or swimming pool contract, the down payment may not exceed $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less. Limited statutory exceptions exist, including certain CSLB-approved blanket bonds; an ordinary contractor license bond is not that exception. Your signed contract states the down payment and the progress-payment schedule. Ask us to explain any payment term before signing.

References: CSLB contracts and payments ↗

Plan the deck around real activities and walking routes, not just a narrow border of paving. We lay out lounge chairs, dining and walkways, and consider door swings, supervision and equipment access. A large pool can make the yard feel cramped if these needs are ignored. Required clearances vary by jurisdiction and design, so we check them for your property rather than relying on a single universal deck width.

Replacing thirsty lawn and inefficient spray irrigation with low-water plants, drip irrigation and a smart controller can significantly reduce outdoor water use, which is often the largest part of a Southern California home's water bill. Actual savings depend on your existing landscape, the new design and how the system is managed. We design landscapes with water efficiency built in from the start.

It depends on the finish, water chemistry, maintenance and sun exposure. Pebble and quartz finishes generally last longer than standard white plaster, and poor water balance can shorten any finish's life considerably. Signs that resurfacing is due include roughness, staining, etching, delamination and chalky water. We evaluate your finish and recommend the right time and material for resurfacing.

There is no single schedule for all the places we serve. Watering depends on plant type, establishment stage, soil, exposure, season and the irrigation system. La Quinta’s summer conditions can differ substantially from coastal Orange County or Santa Monica. We set initial schedules for the planting and explain seasonal adjustments, while following your water provider’s current restrictions. A smart controller still needs monitoring.

Start by verifying the contractor's license directly on the California Contractors State License Board website (cslb.ca.gov). Confirm the license is active, that it carries the right classifications (C-53 for pools, C-27 for landscaping), and that bond and workers' compensation information is current. Then review relevant project experience, ask for references on projects similar to yours, and read the written scope carefully. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design is CSLB License #950714 (C-27 and C-53), and we welcome that review.

Poolside plants should have a suitable mature size, drop little litter into the water, tolerate reflected heat and occasional splashing, and keep equipment and walkways accessible. We avoid plants with aggressive roots near the pool shell and plumbing, and those with thorns or messy flowers next to the water. Our planting plan is coordinated with paving and irrigation so the area stays beautiful and easy to maintain.

We start with the property's actual exposure, sun, soil and space. Coastal conditions vary greatly: a sheltered courtyard in Corona del Mar is very different from a wind-exposed bluff in Laguna Beach or Dana Point. Salt and wind tolerance matter, along with mature size, irrigation needs and maintenance. We select plants for the actual coastal exposure, whether the property is in Orange County or a coastal Los Angeles-area community.

We plan pool overflow and draining with the actual sewer, stormwater and water agencies for the address. Where permitted, we specify an approved sanitary-sewer connection with the required protection and discharge limits. Never assume a street drain, yard outlet or sewer cleanout is an approved destination. Local rules can address chlorine, salt, flow rate and how the connection is made. Have a pool professional manage draining, including the structural risks of an empty shell.

Look at real samples in sunlight similar to your patio. Lighter colors and certain materials, such as travertine, stay cooler underfoot than dark pavers or dark concrete, and texture affects both comfort and slip resistance. Consider cleaning and maintenance as well. Be cautious of any claim that a surface will always stay cool. Shade from trees or a patio cover also changes how a sunny patio feels and is used.

Start with the home and how you want to use the water. A geometric pool can reinforce architectural lines, while a softer shape can relate to a garden setting. Tanning shelves, spas, automatic-cover compatibility, lighting and outdoor gathering spaces can be incorporated into either approach. A shaded La Quinta retreat may need a different layout from a coastal courtyard or hillside estate. We compare the options for your property rather than promise one trend is best.

A fire pit creates an open, social, all-around seating area; an outdoor fireplace creates a focal point, provides more directional warmth and can block wind or views. They also differ in size, cost and relationship to nearby structures. Gas supply, manufacturer clearances and local fire restrictions matter. We consider the whole outdoor room, including seating, circulation and planting, before you decide based on appearance alone.

Choose the shape that relates to your house, your available space and how you will use the pool. A geometric pool reinforces strong architectural lines and suits modern and classical homes; a freeform pool creates a softer relationship with planting and relaxed gathering areas. Neither shape automatically solves a difficult site. We compare usable swimming space, deck circulation, views from inside the house and automatic cover compatibility before recommending a shape.

A heat pump is useful for efficient, sustained heating, while gas can provide faster supplemental heating when the design and applicable rules allow it. Air temperature, wind, cover use and your swimming schedule affect performance, so a coastal pool and a La Quinta pool should not be sized from the same assumption. California’s 2025 Energy Code, effective January 1, 2026, generally requires a qualifying primary heating source for new heating installations, with exceptions for specified existing systems and spa applications. We size and control the package for your actual project.

Compare appearance, feel underfoot, durability, maintenance, installation method and how each is repaired. Concrete offers a seamless surface and many finishes; pavers are modular, repairable and come in many styles; natural stone, such as travertine, limestone and flagstone, offers unique beauty and premium character. Edges, transitions and how large areas are broken up matter as much as the material. We show you samples in your setting and define the complete paving system in our proposal.

Compare color in real water, texture underfoot, maintenance requirements and compatibility with your water chemistry and equipment. A small dry sample does not fully represent the finished pool, and photos are influenced by lighting, depth and sky. We show you samples and completed pools, explain each finish's preparation and startup requirements, and base durability expectations on the manufacturer's documentation and our written project terms.

Choose a paving material and finish suitable for wet, barefoot use, not just color. Texture, slope, drainage and maintenance all affect how the surface performs. We review manufacturer information and show you samples. No paving material is slip-proof, so installation quality and keeping the surface clean also matter.

Choose the activities that matter most, then test their arrangement with realistic furniture and walking routes. Cooking, dining, conversation and swimming can share space instead of each needing a separate feature. We also consider sound, evening use and neighbors as well as the daytime view. A great outdoor space usually comes from a few well-designed areas rather than every possible amenity.

Under California's Swimming Pool Safety Act, a pool enclosure must be at least 60 inches high, with no gaps that would allow a sphere 4 inches in diameter to pass through, and with gates that are self-closing and self-latching. Local building codes and HOA rules can add requirements. We design fences, gates and walls to meet the requirements that apply to your property and confirm them through inspection.

Generally, no. Section 110.4(c) of California's 2025 Energy Code exempts alterations to pools and spas that already have heating systems or equipment, so replacing an existing gas heater is generally exempt from the new heat pump or solar requirement. That exception covers only the heating-source rule; other equipment and installation requirements, such as the ban on continuously burning pilot lights, still apply. We document your existing heating before recommending a replacement.

No. A French drain is a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe that collects and redirects subsurface water. It works well in certain situations, but surface water is often better handled with area drains, channel drains or regrading, and irrigation problems need irrigation fixes. The right design depends on soil, the source of the water and a suitable outlet. We explain each drainage component's purpose and where the water will go.

A pool is primarily an investment in how you use your home: swimming, exercise, family time and entertaining. Whether it adds resale value depends on your market, property, design and the buyer; there is no guaranteed return. We plan the pool and landscape around your priorities, the site and a clear budget, with attention to maintenance and operating costs as well as appearance.

Yes, for heated outdoor pools and spas. Outdoor pools and spas with electric or gas heating must have a cover, and the California Energy Commission's guidance says the cover must be fitted and installed at final inspection. Unheated pools and solar-only pools do not have this energy-code cover requirement. Covers also reduce evaporation, heat loss and debris. We include the required cover in our scope for every heated pool.

No. A salt chlorine generator produces chlorine from dissolved salt in the water. Many people prefer how salt pools feel, and the system reduces handling of chlorine products, but the water still needs regular testing, balancing and care. Salt can also affect some natural stone, metals and finishes, so materials must be selected with salt in mind. It is a method of providing sanitizer, not chemical-free or maintenance-free swimming.

California generally requires a contractor’s license when the project needs a building permit, uses employee labor, or costs $1,000 or more in combined labor and materials. The small-job exemption applies only when all its conditions are met; a larger job cannot be divided into small contracts to avoid licensing. Pool construction and substantial landscape work should be performed by properly licensed contractors. Verify the license, classification, bond and workers’ compensation information through CSLB; our license is #950714.

References: CSLB contractor licensing requirements ↗

Yes. In addition to crack prevention under ANSI A118.12, RedGard meets ANSI A118.10 as a waterproofing membrane. Under exterior stone and tile, that helps keep water from soaking into the mortar bed and concrete, which reduces efflorescence (white mineral staining) and long-term deterioration of the installation.

Yes. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design, Inc. holds California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) License #950714 with two classifications: C-27 Landscaping Contractor and C-53 Swimming Pool Contractor. You can verify our license status at any time on the CSLB website (cslb.ca.gov) using the "Check a License" tool. We encourage every homeowner to verify any contractor's license directly with the CSLB before hiring.

Yes. The initial site visit with Richard Lusk Landscape and Design is complimentary. We meet you at your property, learn how you want to use it, and evaluate the site, including slopes, drainage, access, utilities, views and likely permit or HOA requirements. The detailed scope of work and budget we create as a result of that consultation is also complimentary. Call 800-808-7510 or email info@richardlusk.com to schedule your site visit.

When California’s home improvement cancellation right applies, the usual period is three business days, or five business days for a buyer age 65 or older. Some situations have different rules or exceptions. Read the cancellation notice supplied with your contract for the deadline and how to cancel, and use CSLB’s consumer guidance if you need clarification. Our agreement includes the notices applicable to the transaction.

References: CSLB home improvement contract guide ↗

Not as the only heat source. Under California's 2025 Energy Code, effective January 1, 2026, an existing unheated pool getting its first heater must comply with the new heating-source requirement, so the primary heater must be a qualifying system such as a properly sized heat pump or solar. Being an existing pool does not by itself create an exemption. A gas heater can be added as a supplemental heater with the required controls.

Both keep a pool sanitized with chlorine; the difference is how it is delivered. A salt system generates chlorine automatically from salt, so many homeowners enjoy softer-feeling water and fewer chemical purchases. Traditional chlorine systems have lower equipment costs and avoid salt's effects on some stone and metal materials. Other options, such as ozone or UV systems, can supplement chlorine. We help you choose based on your preferences, materials and maintenance plans.

Usually it makes sense to evaluate them together. Coping and waterline tile meet at the pool edge, and replacing one while keeping the other can limit your choices or leave an awkward transition. If the deck is also changing, we review all three so elevations and edges are coordinated. When we install waterline tile, we use the LATICRETE system: 3701 Fortified Mortar to build up and true the surface, HYDRO BAN waterproofing membrane, and 254 Platinum thin-set mortar. Our scope states exactly what remains and how the connections will be detailed.

Not automatically. The lowest bid often leaves out work another contractor included, uses lower-grade materials or base preparation, or relies on change orders later. Compare scope, quality, experience and communication, not just the total. Our complimentary detailed scope of work and budget spells out what is included, so you can see exactly what you are buying and avoid unforeseen change orders down the road.

Usually, yes, or at least re-evaluated. New plants, revised planting beds and new hardscape often make the old sprinkler layout inefficient or ineffective. We review coverage, zones and the needs of plants that will remain, and our proposal distinguishes reused components from new ones. Simply reconnecting an old timer does not mean the new landscape will receive the right water.

Pool gates should open outward, away from the pool, and be self-closing and self-latching, so that a child pushing on the gate cannot open it into the pool area. Latches must be located at a height children cannot easily reach. California law and local codes specify these details. We design gates to meet your city or county’s requirements.

We evaluate each component's condition, efficiency and compatibility with the remodeled pool. Keeping a well-functioning component can be reasonable, while adding a spa or water features, or replacing aging equipment, often makes replacement the smarter choice. Heating matters too: under California's 2026 Energy Code, replacing the heater on a pool that already has heating is generally exempt from the new heat pump or solar requirement, but adding heat to a pool that never had it must comply. Our proposal clearly identifies retained and new equipment.

Yes, for a complete property transformation we strongly recommend designing them together. A whole-property plan creates a consistent material palette, coordinates shared systems such as irrigation, lighting and drainage, and sets a sensible construction sequence so finished work is not disturbed later. You can still build in phases, but an overall plan prevents paying twice. Our written scope always states exactly which areas are included.

It depends on how you will use the space, the look you want and your water and maintenance goals. Natural lawn is cool underfoot and natural looking, but needs regular irrigation, mowing and fertilizing. Artificial turf uses no irrigation water and stays green, but it gets hot in direct sun, needs proper drainage and base preparation, and requires periodic cleaning. Neither is maintenance-free. We review samples and construction details with you before deciding.

Yes, and it is the foundation of how Richard Lusk Landscape and Design works. After a complimentary site visit, we prepare a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget. You review and approve it before any plans are drawn. Once you hire us, we design the plan with that budget in mind, meet with you to review it, make any necessary changes and adjust the plan and budget accordingly, so the design and the cost always stay connected.

If you think you will want a spa, include it in the original design. Its location affects seating, views, water features, equipment and how the deck is used, and adding a spa later is more disruptive and costly than building it with the pool. We can show you the design with and without a spa so you can compare the whole outdoor space before deciding.

Yes, in most planting beds. A layer of mulch conserves soil moisture, reduces weeds, moderates soil temperature and gives beds a finished look. Organic mulches such as shredded bark improve soil over time, while gravel or decomposed granite suits some modern and dry gardens. In fire-hazard areas, mulch choices near the home may be restricted. We specify the right mulch for your design and site.

California native plants come from many different habitats, so “native” does not mean suitable everywhere in the state. Coastal, inland and desert species have different heat, soil and water needs. We select plants for the property’s actual conditions and can combine appropriate natives with other compatible plants. Mature size, irrigation, maintenance and any fire or community restrictions remain part of the decision.

Setbacks are minimum distances that a pool, spa, equipment or structure must keep from property lines, the house, slopes, easements and other features. They are set by your city or county’s zoning and building codes and sometimes by your HOA, and they can significantly affect where a pool fits and how large it can be. We review the applicable setbacks for your address before designing so that your layout is buildable and approvable.

The seven categories are an isolation enclosure; qualifying removable mesh fencing; a labeled manual or powered safety cover; exit alarms on direct-access doors and windows; qualifying self-closing, self-latching doors; a certified pool-entry alarm; or independently verified equivalent protection. The applicable ASTM standards, installation and permitted combinations matter. In particular, door alarms plus door latches do not satisfy the two-feature requirement, nor does a safety cover paired only with a pool-entry alarm. We confirm the complete safety plan with the local building department.

References: California pool safety law (SB 552 enacted text) ↗

The main construction steps are: layout and excavation; steel reinforcement; plumbing and electrical rough-in; inspections; shotcrete or gunite to form the shell; curing; tile and coping; equipment installation; decking and surrounding hardscape; interior finish such as plaster, quartz or pebble; filling and startup; and final inspection with required safety features. On a complete project, landscape, lighting and outdoor living features are built alongside these steps.

Be cautious of a contractor who cannot give you a license number, asks for a large down payment, pressures you to sign immediately, offers only a verbal estimate, suggests skipping permits, or gives a price far below other bids without explaining why. Also be wary of anyone who will not provide proof of insurance or references. California law limits the down payment on home improvement and swimming pool contracts, so a demand for a large deposit before work begins is a red flag.

We follow the construction hours and noise rules that apply to the property, together with any stricter HOA or private community requirements. Hours, weekend work, holiday restrictions and delivery arrangements vary between cities and unincorporated areas. We confirm the schedule before construction and coordinate access and deliveries accordingly.

A layered plan combines barriers, controlled access, alarms or covers and, above all, attentive adult supervision. No single device makes a pool risk-free. We design the layout with safety in mind, including fence and gate locations, door alarms, cover options and sightlines from the house, and confirm the requirements of your city or county. We also consider your household's daily routines, including how doors and gates are actually used.

Permit approvals, engineering, HOA review, site access, existing conditions, inspections, material availability, weather and owner selections can all affect the schedule, and conditions discovered during demolition may require adjustments. We give you a schedule tied to your agreed scope and explain the steps that must happen before construction. A duration quoted for someone else's pool is not a reliable promise for a different property or a larger combined landscape project.

On January 1, 2026, California's 2025 Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6) took effect. Under Section 110.4(c), a new pool heating installation generally must use a qualifying primary heat source: a properly sized heat pump, solar heating, solar plus heat pump, a system that gets at least 60% of its annual heating energy from on-site renewable or recovered energy, or an alternative approved by the California Energy Commission. A gas heater can still be installed as a supplemental heater. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design designs every new heated pool to meet these requirements.

Water color depends on the interior finish, the tile, the pool's depth, the sky and surrounding materials. White plaster gives light blue water; gray, blue and black finishes create deeper blues, teals and lagoon effects; pebble and quartz blends add color variation. We show you finish samples and photos of completed pools so you can choose the water color you love.

Section 110.4(d) of California's 2025 Energy Code requires controls that prevent the supplemental heater from operating when the heat pump alone can meet the heating load. The heat pump's cut-on and cut-off temperatures must also be set higher than the supplemental heater's corresponding settings. Simply installing both units without the required control sequence is not enough. We set up the controls so your system complies and runs efficiently.

The most commonly overlooked items are site work and requirements you cannot see: soil export and haul-off, difficult access, engineering, soils reports, permits, HOA submittals, drainage, electrical and gas upgrades, required pool safety features, fencing and gates, and restoring areas disturbed during construction. Our complimentary detailed scope of work and budget identifies these items up front, which is a major reason our approach reduces the likelihood of unforeseen change orders down the road.

Outdoor countertops need to withstand sun, heat, rain and temperature changes. Popular choices include granite, quartzite, porcelain slabs, poured concrete and some natural stones. Some quartz products are not rated for outdoor UV exposure, so they can discolor. Lighter colors stay cooler in the sun. We recommend materials that look good and perform outdoors over time.

We design and build in many styles, from clean modern courtyards and contemporary geometric pools to Mediterranean, Spanish, Tuscan, coastal, California ranch and naturalistic landscapes. Our goal is a design that suits the architecture of your home, your site and how you live. Bring photographs of spaces you love, and we will translate them into a plan that works for your property.

A C-27 license is the California Contractors State License Board classification for Landscaping Contractors. It authorizes a contractor to construct, maintain, repair, install or subcontract the development of landscape systems and facilities, including grading, planting, irrigation, drainage, hardscape such as walkways, patios and garden walls, and related outdoor improvements. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design holds the C-27 classification under CSLB License #950714.

A C-53 license is the California Contractors State License Board classification for Swimming Pool Contractors. It authorizes a contractor to construct swimming pools, spas and hot tubs, including installing pool equipment and the associated work required to complete them. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design holds the C-53 Swimming Pool classification under CSLB License #950714, along with the C-27 Landscaping classification, so one licensed company can build both the pool and the landscape around it.

ANSI A118.12 is the American National Standards Institute specification for crack isolation membranes used under thin-set ceramic tile and dimension stone. A product that meets A118.12 has been tested for its ability to resist the transfer of cracks from the substrate into the tile. RedGard, which we use under mortar-set stone and tile on concrete, meets ANSI A118.12.

For a new or remodeled pool or spa permitted at a private single-family home, California generally requires at least two qualifying drowning-prevention features. The selected combination matters: not every pair satisfies the law. Local requirements and statutory exceptions also apply. We plan the barriers, covers, alarms and access controls with the building department and have the required features inspected before final approval. They do not replace active adult supervision.

References: California pool safety law (SB 552 enacted text) ↗

Craftsmanship and Precision describes our attention to layout, elevations, tile and coping alignment, paving joints, material transitions and the preparation beneath the finishes. It also includes planning drainage, lighting and service connections before surfaces are completed. These details are coordinated within the agreed construction scope, from the first layout to the final walkthrough. You can see examples on our Craftsmanship and Precision service page.

Craftsmanship and Precision →

Final completion means all contracted work is finished, the responsible agency has signed off on required final inspections, required safety features are in place, systems are operating, and we have walked you through your project and provided documentation. Final completion is the point where the project transitions from construction to ownership and care.

A pool automation system lets you control pumps, heaters, lights, valves, water features and sometimes cleaners and sanitation from a phone app, a wall panel or a remote. You can set schedules, heat the spa before you get home and change light colors. Automation makes operation easier, but it does not replace water testing or regular care. Our proposal lists the functions included, and we demonstrate the system at handover.

Ask who designs and installs the electrical work, which permits and inspections apply, how GFCI protection and equipotential bonding are provided, and whether your existing electrical service can support new equipment. Existing wiring should be evaluated when equipment or lighting changes. Electrical work near water requires qualified professionals, permits and inspections; it is never a do-it-yourself project. Keep the final electrical documentation with your project records.

Pool heating equipment must meet the testing standards that apply to its fuel or technology. For heat pumps, that means testing under AHRI 1160 plus a listed safety standard. Heat pumps used as the primary heating system must also be sized according to the code's Reference Joint Appendix JA16.3. We specify listed, properly sized equipment and provide sizing documentation for the permit.

After you approve the scope and budget, we enter into a signed design-build Home Improvement Contract with the agreed payment schedule. We then begin the design and HOA plans included in that scope. We review the plan with you, document any changes to scope, price and schedule, and coordinate the engineering and approvals needed before construction. We do not offer the HOA-plan phase as a separate design-only engagement.

When construction is complete, we perform a thorough final inspection to make sure our quality standards have been met, complete the required city or county final inspections, and walk you through your new outdoor space. We show you how to operate your pool equipment, automation, lighting and irrigation, and provide operating instructions, warranty documents and care information. We remain available for aftercare questions after the project is finished.

The first week typically includes site protection, layout of the pool on the ground, utility locating, and excavation. We confirm the pool's position, elevations and equipment location with you before digging. Excavated soil is hauled away, and the site is prepared for steel reinforcement and plumbing.

Unpermitted work can create problems when you remodel, insure or sell your home. During our evaluation, we look for signs of unpermitted structures and explain your options, which may include documenting and permitting the existing work, upgrading it to current code, or removing and rebuilding it as part of the new project. We will give you a clear recommendation based on the condition of the work and your city or county’s requirements.

Our detailed scope of work and budget, prepared after evaluating your site in person, anticipates as many conditions as possible, and 50 years of pool and landscape construction experience helps us spot them early. If a truly hidden condition is uncovered, such as buried debris, unexpected rock, an old foundation or unrecorded utilities, we document it, explain the recommended solution and any effect on cost and schedule, and proceed only with a written change order.

Rock may require heavier excavation equipment or breaking, and groundwater may require dewatering and design adjustments such as hydrostatic relief. During our site evaluation, we consider the soil and the likelihood of these conditions based on 50 years of construction experience and any geotechnical information. If an unexpected condition is found, we document it, explain the solution and any cost or schedule effect, and proceed only with your written approval.

Excavated soil is usually hauled off site, although some may be reused for grading or raised planting areas when it is suitable. A typical pool excavation produces a large volume of soil, so haul-off is a significant part of the work. Soil export, truck access and disposal are included as defined items in our proposals.

Section 110.4(c) of the 2025 California Energy Code provides five compliance paths: 1) solar thermal, with collector area of at least 60% of the pool and spa surface area for a single-family home; 2) a heat pump sized according to Reference Joint Appendix JA16.3, with an optional supplemental heater of any energy source; 3) a system that gets at least 60% of its annual heating energy from on-site renewable or recovered energy; 4) solar plus heat pump together, without an additional supplemental heater; or 5) an alternative the California Energy Commission's Executive Director determines uses no more energy. We recommend the path that best fits your property and how you swim.

Restricted access can affect properties throughout our service areas, and it changes the equipment we use, how materials are moved, the demolition sequence and how we protect existing improvements. We measure the actual route, including gates, corners, overhead obstructions and areas that must stay usable. Any use of a neighbor's property requires their agreement. A narrow side yard rarely makes a project impossible; we have built in tight spaces for 50 years using compact equipment and careful planning.

Depending on the agency and project, submissions may require a scaled site plan, building locations, property boundaries, slopes, existing and proposed plants, mature plant sizes, irrigation information and fuel modification zones. Site photographs and maintenance information may also be required. The reviewing agency’s checklist determines the complete submission.

References: OCFA — Fuel Modification Plans, Guideline C-05 ↗ · Los Angeles County Fire — Fuel Modification ↗

You should receive an equipment list, operating instructions, warranty documents, startup and care instructions for your finishes and equipment, and a practical walkthrough of the controls. At Richard Lusk Landscape and Design, we walk you through how everything works and who to contact with questions. Keep these records with your contract and change orders. Ongoing pool maintenance is performed by your pool-care provider, not included in construction.

The building department identifies the required inspection stages for your permit. They commonly include structural reinforcement and rough plumbing or electrical work before concealment, bonding, applicable gas tests, and final safety and equipment checks. The sequence and separate trade inspections vary by jurisdiction and scope. We schedule the required inspections and obtain approval before covering work or moving past a required inspection point.

A backflow preventer is a device that keeps irrigation water from flowing back into your home's drinking water supply. California plumbing codes and local water agencies require backflow prevention on irrigation systems, and some types must be tested periodically. We install the required backflow device as part of your irrigation system.

A beach entry, or zero-entry, pool slopes gradually from deck level into the water, like walking into the ocean. It is great for young children, older swimmers and lounging, and it creates a resort feel. Beach entries take up more pool area than steps, so they work best in medium and larger pools. We can finish them in pebble, tile or other materials suited to wet, sloped surfaces.

A change order is a written amendment to your contract that describes a change in the work and its effect on price and schedule. California requires changes to home improvement contracts to be in writing and signed. Change orders can come from owner requests, conditions discovered during construction, or requirements from the permitting authority. Our detailed scope of work and budget, prepared before design and adjusted with the plan, reduces the likelihood of unforeseen change orders down the road.

A Coastal Development Permit is an approval for qualifying work in California’s coastal zone. The local jurisdiction may issue it under a certified Local Coastal Program, while some projects fall under the Coastal Commission’s authority. The correct path depends on the parcel and proposed work, and an exemption must be established rather than assumed. This question can arise in both Orange County and coastal Los Angeles-area communities.

A dry creek bed is a landscape feature built with river rock and boulders that resembles a natural streambed. It can be purely decorative, or it can carry stormwater through the landscape during rain. Dry creek beds work well in natural, Mediterranean and drought-tolerant designs and can solve drainage problems while adding beauty.

A landscape can reduce wildfire exposure through layout, plant spacing, removal of dead growth, appropriate materials and ongoing maintenance, but no plant or garden is fireproof. We check the current requirements of the responsible fire authority and any approved fuel-modification plan for the address. Rules vary across Orange County, Los Angeles-area communities and La Quinta. The areas close to structures, access routes and combustible features receive particular attention.

A fuel modification plan establishes how vegetation around a property will be arranged and maintained to reduce wildfire exposure. It can address plant selection, spacing, irrigation, slopes and vegetation-management zones. Where required, these provisions become part of the landscape design. OCFA recommends preparation by a licensed landscape architect or an equivalent qualified design professional.

References: OCFA — Fuel Modification Plans, Guideline C-05 ↗

A fuel-modification area is managed to reduce wildfire exposure through vegetation choices, spacing, maintenance and other measures. The approved plan and responsible fire authority determine what applies to a property. Requirements can differ between Orange County, Los Angeles-area communities and La Quinta, and between parcels within one neighborhood. We check the property’s approved documents and current fire requirements before planning planting, walls or outdoor structures.

A grotto is a cave-like space built into a pool, usually beneath a waterfall or rock formation, where swimmers can sit in a sheltered area. Grottos create a resort-style, naturalistic look. They require careful structural design, lighting and waterproofing. We design grottos for properties where a natural or tropical style suits the home.

A louvered patio cover is a structure, usually aluminum, with adjustable roof louvers that can be opened for sun and airflow or closed for shade and rain protection, often with motorized controls. It gives you the flexibility of a pergola and the protection of a solid roof. Louvered systems can integrate lighting, heaters and fans. They typically require a permit and proper engineering for the structure and footings.

A pebble finish combines small aggregate with a cement-based pool interior. The aggregate is exposed during the finishing process; some products receive additional polishing. Texture, color and smoothness vary by product and finishing method. We compare samples and completed work, then consider water chemistry, maintenance, startup instructions and how the finish feels underfoot before you choose.

A plunge pool is a compact pool designed for cooling off, relaxing and socializing rather than swimming laps. Plunge pools are ideal for small coastal lots, courtyards and side yards, and they can be heated and include jets so they function like a hybrid pool and spa. Because they need less space and equipment, they are a smart way to add water to a property where a full-size pool will not fit.

Layout is when the pool's outline, elevations and features are marked on the ground before excavation. It is an important moment to walk the yard with us and confirm the pool's position relative to the house, views and other features. Seeing the full-size outline on the ground often helps clients make final adjustments before digging begins.

A raised spa is elevated above the pool so its water spills over a weir or edge into the pool, creating a beautiful sound and visual focal point. The spillover also connects the spa and pool so they can share equipment. Raised spas are often finished with tile or stone on the face and placed where they can be seen from the house. We design the height, spillover width and seating for comfort and appearance.

A safety cover is a cover labeled to the applicable ASTM F1346 safety standard and installed for the specific pool or spa. It can be manual or powered. A solar blanket or ordinary debris cover is not a safety cover. Compliance also depends on the complete safety plan and allowed feature combinations, so we verify the selected cover and installation during design.

References: California pool safety law (SB 552 enacted text) ↗

A Scope of Work is a detailed written description of exactly what we will build: the areas included, the work to be performed, significant materials and equipment, responsibilities for permits and engineering, and exclusions. We prepare a detailed scope of work and budget at no charge after your complimentary site visit, and it is refined as your plan is finalized. In your contract, the Scope of Work also describes the warranties that apply to our work.

A seat wall is a low wall, typically at comfortable seating height, that defines an outdoor space while providing built-in seating. Seat walls are often used around fire pits, patios and planting beds, and can include lighting and stone or stucco finishes. They are an efficient way to add seating for gatherings without extra furniture.

A sheer descent is a water feature that releases a smooth sheet of water from a raised wall into the pool. It creates a clean, modern look and a soothing sound. Sheer descents need pump capacity and are usually controlled by automation so you can turn them on for guests or ambiance. They pair beautifully with raised walls finished in tile or stone.

A spool is a small pool, larger than a spa but smaller than a typical pool, that can be heated and fitted with jets so it works as both. Spools are popular for compact coastal lots, courtyards and homeowners who want to relax and cool off more than swim laps. They need less space and less equipment than a full-size pool and spa combination.

A tanning ledge, also called a Baja shelf or sun shelf, is a large shallow platform inside the pool, usually several inches deep, where you can lounge in the water on in-pool chairs, cool off, or let small children play under supervision. It can be planned as part of a new pool or evaluated as a structural remodeling option. We design its size, depth and position around your layout, umbrella locations and how it connects to the steps and deeper water.

A variable-speed pump adjusts its speed to the circulation task. Lower-speed filtration can reduce electricity use and noise, while features such as spa jets may need different flows. The pump must be selected for the actual plumbing and equipment and comply with the applicable efficiency standards. Not every specialty pump has the same requirements. We size the equipment and commission the schedules for your pool.

An anti-fracture membrane, also called a crack isolation membrane, is a thin, flexible layer installed between a concrete substrate and tile or stone. When the concrete develops small shrinkage cracks or minor in-plane movement, the membrane absorbs that movement so the cracks do not transfer up into the finished surface. Products such as RedGard are tested under ANSI A118.12, the standard for crack isolation membranes.

An automatic pool cover is a motorized cover that extends and retracts across the pool with a key switch or control. A properly certified and installed automatic safety cover can serve as one of the drowning prevention features recognized by California law, and it also reduces heat loss, evaporation, debris and cleaning. Covers work best with rectangular and geometric pools and must be planned during design for the mechanism and housing.

An easement gives a utility, a neighbor or a public agency the right to use part of your property for a specific purpose, such as drainage, sewer or utility lines. Building permanent structures, including pools and walls, within an easement is usually restricted or prohibited. We review your property's survey or title information for easements before finalizing the layout so you do not design around space you cannot use.

An infinity edge, also called a vanishing edge or negative edge, is a pool wall where the water flows over the edge into a lower catch basin, creating the illusion that the water extends into the view beyond. It is a beautiful choice for hillside and ocean-view properties in coastal and hillside settings, or where a desert property offers an appropriate view. Vanishing edges require precise engineering, a properly sized catch basin, additional plumbing and equipment, and careful construction.

Ozone and ultraviolet (UV) systems are supplemental sanitation systems that treat water as it passes through the equipment, reducing contaminants and the amount of chlorine needed. They do not replace chlorine entirely, because a residual sanitizer is still required in the pool. Some homeowners add them for improved water quality and comfort. We can include them in your equipment package.

Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations is the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards, often called the Energy Code. It is updated on a regular cycle by the California Energy Commission. The 2025 edition took effect on January 1, 2026, and includes the current requirements for pool and spa heating, covers, piping and controls. Building departments enforce it through plan review and inspection.

Zone Zero, also called Zone 0, focuses on the first five feet around a home and certain attached structures. Its purpose is to reduce materials that windblown embers can ignite close to the building. Creating this ember-resistant area is an important part of protecting a property from wildfire.

References: CAL FIRE — Defensible-space and landscaping guidance ↗

Coping is the cap along the top edge of the pool wall, where the pool meets the deck. It finishes the edge, directs water away from the pool, and provides a comfortable place to sit or hold. Common coping materials include travertine, limestone, precast concrete, porcelain and poured-in-place concrete. Coping style strongly affects the look of a pool.

Decomposed granite (DG) is a fine, gravel-like material made from weathered granite. It is used for natural-looking paths, patios and garden areas in Mediterranean and drought-tolerant landscapes. Stabilized DG includes a binder that makes it firmer and more resistant to erosion. DG is permeable and affordable, but it can track indoors and needs occasional maintenance. We install it with proper edging and base.

Grading is shaping the ground so water flows away from your home and improvements, and so paved and planted areas are at the right levels. Proper grading prevents water from collecting against foundations, walls and pool decks. Grading may require a permit and engineering, especially on hillsides or when moving large amounts of soil. Every project we build starts with correct grades.

Hardscape refers to the non-living, constructed parts of a landscape: patios, pavers, walkways, walls, steps, outdoor kitchens, fire features and structures. Softscape refers to the living elements: trees, shrubs, ground covers, lawn and soil. A successful landscape balances both. As a design-build firm, we design and build the hardscape and softscape together so they work as one.

After the complimentary site visit, we prepare a detailed scope of work and budget for your project at no charge. It describes the work, the areas included, significant materials and equipment, and what is included and excluded, along with the budget for building it. You review and approve the budget before any plans are drawn. If you then hire us, it becomes the foundation for your plan.

The City of Laguna Beach has a design review process that evaluates many residential projects for neighborhood compatibility, views, landscaping and other considerations, in addition to building permits. Whether your project requires design review depends on its scope and location. Laguna Beach projects require extra planning time, and we account for the city's review process in the project schedule.

LATICRETE 254 Platinum is a premium, polymer-fortified thin-set mortar used to bond tile and stone. It is part of LATICRETE's pool installation system, and we use it to set all waterline and submerged tile over HYDRO BAN and a 3701 Fortified Mortar build-up. Its high bond strength is especially important in pools, where tile is constantly exposed to water, temperature changes and pool chemicals.

LATICRETE 3701 Fortified Mortar is a polymer-fortified blend of portland cement and graded aggregates that needs only water to produce a high-strength mortar. In our pool tile work, we use it to build up and true the pool's waterline and tiled surfaces so the tile sits flat, straight and properly aligned. It is rated "Extra Heavy" under the TCNA service rating (ASTM C627).

LATICRETE HYDRO BAN is a thin, load-bearing waterproofing membrane applied beneath tile. In pools, it creates a continuous waterproof layer behind waterline and submerged tile, protecting the mortar bed and pool shell from water and the bond from failure. We apply HYDRO BAN at the manufacturer's required thickness before setting tile with LATICRETE 254 Platinum.

Pool bonding connects the pool's steel reinforcement, metal components, equipment and nearby metal surfaces with a conductor so they all stay at the same electrical potential. This equipotential bonding reduces the risk of electric shock in and around the water. Bonding is required by the electrical code and inspected by the building department before the pool shell is completed. It is a critical safety step we never shortcut.

Porcelain pavers are dense, factory-made tiles, usually 2 centimeters thick, designed for outdoor use. They are highly stain-resistant, absorb very little water, keep their color and come in finishes that resemble stone, wood and concrete. Porcelain can suit modern homes across our service areas because it creates clean, seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. It must be installed with an appropriate system for outdoor conditions.

RedGard is a liquid-applied waterproofing and crack prevention membrane made by Custom Building Products. It is rolled or brushed onto a surface before tile or stone is set. RedGard meets ANSI A118.12 for crack prevention and ANSI A118.10 as a waterproofing membrane. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design uses RedGard on projects where stone or tile is mortar-set over a concrete subbase.

Our California contractor license number is 950714, issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The license carries the C-27 Landscaping classification and the C-53 Swimming Pool classification, which together cover the landscape and pool work we design and build. You can look up License #950714 on cslb.ca.gov to confirm its current status, classifications, bond and workers' compensation information.

California's Energy Code requires new pool systems to be ready for future solar heating, by providing at least 18 inches of horizontal or vertical pipe between the filter and the heater, dedicated suction and return lines, or built-in connections for future solar heating. The rule does not require every pool to actually install solar collectors. We plumb every new pool equipment system to meet this requirement.

Choose the deck as a complete system: a material and finish suitable for wet bare feet, compatible with the pool environment, installed on the right base with effective drainage. Natural stone, outdoor-rated porcelain, concrete pavers and textured concrete offer different looks and maintenance needs. In sunny or desert settings, sample temperature and shade deserve special attention. No material is always cool or slip-proof.

A concrete pool is built on site and can be any shape, size or depth, with the widest choice of finishes. A fiberglass pool is a factory-made shell delivered by truck and set in place, so its size and shape are limited to the manufacturer's molds. A vinyl liner pool uses a flexible liner inside a wall system and is uncommon for high-end Southern California homes. For our custom residential projects, we build concrete pools.

A landscape designer focuses on the design of outdoor spaces. A landscape architect is a state-licensed design professional whose services may include site planning and landscape documentation. A design-build contractor, such as Richard Lusk Landscape and Design, coordinates design and construction under the agreed project scope. The roles and licensing requirements depend on the work. Where your project needs structural, civil or geotechnical engineering or another licensed professional, those responsibilities are identified in the proposal.

A retaining wall holds back soil where the ground changes level, so it must be designed for soil pressure, water and any load above it. A garden or freestanding wall, such as a seat wall or a property line wall, does not retain soil. A wall's visible height alone does not reveal its structural role. We evaluate each wall's actual conditions and confirm engineering and permit requirements before building.

An open pergola has spaced beams or slats that provide partial shade and a sense of enclosure while letting light and air through. A solid patio cover provides full shade and rain protection, but it can darken adjacent rooms and requires roof drainage. Their structural and permit requirements can also differ. Louvered roofs offer adjustable shade between the two. We compare complete designs for your intended use.

Shotcrete is concrete or mortar placed pneumatically at high velocity. It can use a wet-mix or dry-mix process; the dry-mix process is commonly called gunite. Both can produce durable pool shells when the mix, placement, reinforcement, curing and inspection meet the engineered requirements. The project specification and workmanship matter more than using one label as a promise of quality.

The Los Angeles Fire Department—LAFD—serves the City of Los Angeles. Los Angeles County Fire Department serves unincorporated county areas and numerous contract cities, including Malibu, Calabasas and Hidden Hills. Other cities have their own departments. Your property’s jurisdiction determines which agency reviews the applicable fire-safety requirements.

LAFD — Brush Clearance →

References: LAFD — Fire Development Services ↗ · Los Angeles County Fire — Fuel Modification Exemptions ↗

Traditional white plaster is smooth and classic with a bright blue water color. Quartz finishes add colored quartz aggregate to the plaster for more color options and improved durability. Pebble finishes use small exposed pebbles for a natural textured look, rich water colors and excellent durability. Glass bead and all-tile interiors are premium options. We help you choose based on look, feel, budget and how long you plan to own the pool.

Travertine is a natural stone used for pool decks and coping. Its color, finish, density and suitability for salt or chemically treated water all matter. Some selections can feel cooler than darker paving, but no stone stays cool in every setting, especially in La Quinta’s summer sun. We review actual samples, wet-use suitability and the supplier’s sealing and maintenance guidance before specifying it.

As a design-build company, we follow a clear process. 1) Complimentary site visit: we meet you at the property, learn your goals and evaluate the site. 2) Complimentary scope of work and budget: from that consultation, we prepare a detailed scope of work and budget for your project at no charge. 3) Approval and hiring: once you approve the scope and budget, we enter into a signed design-build Home Improvement Contract, including the payment schedule, before design or HOA plans begin. 4) Design: we create your plan with the approved budget in mind. 5) Review and refine: we meet with you to review the plan, make any necessary changes, and adjust the plan and budget accordingly. 6) Construction, final inspection and follow-up. This detailed, budget-first approach reduces the likelihood of unforeseen change orders down the road.

Our best projects are substantial residential properties where the pool, front yard, backyard and outdoor living spaces are designed and built together. We specialize in luxury homes and technically challenging sites: hillsides, coastal lots, tight-access properties, and yards that need engineered retaining walls or serious drainage work. We plan the property as one complete project, including the hardscape, planting and the underlying site work that makes it last. Tell us your location and ideas, and we will discuss fit and next steps with you.

Privacy depends on where screening is needed, how quickly you want it and how the plants will grow. We consider views from your windows and from neighbors' second stories, not just the property line. A single dense hedge is not always best; layered planting with trees, shrubs and vines often looks better and screens more effectively. Mature size, maintenance access and HOA and local height limits guide our final selection and spacing.

Three things set us apart: experience, integration and a detailed budget-first process. Richard Lusk has built pools and landscapes since 1976, with more than 3,000 completed projects. We hold both pool (C-53) and landscape (C-27) licenses, so we design and build your entire property as one project. And we prepare a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget before any plans are drawn, then design to that approved budget, which reduces the likelihood of unforeseen change orders during construction.

Walls can be built with concrete block finished with stucco, natural stone veneer, stacked stone, poured concrete, precast stone caps and other finishes. The finish should complement your home's architecture and other hardscape materials. Retaining walls require an engineered structure behind the finish. We help you select materials that look great and suit the wall's purpose.

Scope and site conditions explain far more than any price per square foot. The size and complexity of the pool, site access, grading, retaining walls, drainage, utility work, outdoor structures, finish selections and the amount of front-yard and backyard work all influence cost. That is why we start with a complimentary site visit and prepare a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget for your property, so cost is defined in detail before any plans are drawn.

Depending on the project, submissions may include existing and proposed site plans, landscaping, grading quantities, drainage and erosion-control details, and earlier approvals. Bluff, shoreline or habitat conditions may require technical studies. The reviewing agency’s checklist determines what is needed; not every project requires every report.

References: Coastal Commission — Preparing a Complete Permit Application ↗ · Coastal Commission — Permit Application Guides ↗

We specify Pentair pool equipment, with IntelliCenter automation for the agreed control functions. The pump, filter, heater, sanitation equipment and controls are selected as a compatible package and identified in your proposal. Heating capacity, electrical supply, manufacturer requirements and California energy rules are checked for the project; the final equipment schedule defines what is included.

Ask whether the contractor holds an active C-27 Landscaping license, carries general liability and workers' compensation insurance, and has built projects similar to yours. Ask who designs the landscape, how drainage and irrigation will be handled, which areas are included, how plant selections are made, and what warranties apply. Ask how the project will be scheduled and how changes are documented. A clear written scope protects you more than any verbal promise.

Ask: Is your license active, and does it include the C-53 Swimming Pool classification? Do you carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance? How long have you been building pools? Who designs the project and who manages construction? Who pulls the permits? What is included and excluded in the price? How are changes handled? What warranties do you provide, and where are they written? How long will construction take after the permit is issued? Richard Lusk Landscape and Design answers all of these in writing before you sign.

For families with young children, we recommend multiple layers: a permanent pool fence or enclosure with self-closing, self-latching gates that separates the pool from the house; door alarms; an automatic safety cover; and a pool alarm. Combine these with constant adult supervision and swim lessons. We design these features into the layout so they work with your daily routines and look like part of the design.

Our services include complete pool and landscape projects, custom pools and spas, pool reshaping and remodeling, landscape design and construction, hardscape and outdoor living, planting, irrigation and lighting, and grading, drainage and retaining walls. Craftsmanship and Precision describes the careful layout, material transitions and finishing throughout our construction. 3D Renderings help you review the design before it is built. Design and visualization are part of the agreed design-build scope after you approve the budget and sign the Home Improvement Contract.

A complete driveway and entry design considers parking, turning space, the walk to the front door, planting, lighting, drainage, gates, walls and steps. It also clarifies how the new paving meets the street, garage and existing surfaces. Work in the public right-of-way, such as a new driveway approach, may require a separate permit from the responsible agency. We define the full scope so you can compare apples to apples.

Start with safety and arrival: the front entry, driveway, paths and steps. Then light the outdoor areas you use after dark, such as dining, seating and the pool, and finally accent selected trees, planting and architectural features. The goal is atmosphere and usability without glare or lighting every surface. We coordinate fixture placement and wiring before paving and planting are complete so everything is in the right place.

Explore Landscape Lighting →

A well-designed outdoor kitchen typically includes a quality grill, generous counter space on both sides, storage, and a sink with hot and cold water if possible. Popular additions include side burners, a refrigerator, an ice maker, a pizza oven, a griddle, a beverage center, bar seating and good lighting. We plan the layout around your cooking style, so the features you use most are in the most convenient places.

The documents should clearly identify the parties, the contractor's license number, the scope of work, significant materials and equipment, the price, the payment schedule, start and completion information, exclusions and responsibilities. California home improvement contracts must also include specific legal notices. Our contracts and Scope of Work spell out what we are building, what is included and excluded, and the warranties that apply to our work.

The pump should match your pool's circulation needs and the equipment it serves, including the filter, heater, spa and water features. Bigger is not automatically better. Variable-speed pumps are the standard today because they can run at lower speeds for routine circulation and use much less energy, and California energy regulations favor them for residential pools. We select and set up the pump based on your actual design and operating needs.

Watch for leaks, broken or misdirected heads spraying paving or walls, clogged drip emitters, and areas that stay soggy or turn dry. New plants need more frequent watering during establishment, and schedules should be adjusted with the seasons. Keep your controller instructions handy. Smart controllers help, but regular visual checks catch problems early. Automation never means the system can be ignored.

Bring a few photographs of the property, examples of outdoor spaces you like, and a short list of priorities. If you already have a property survey, house plans, a soils report or HOA guidelines, bring those too, but they are not required to contact us. Tell us what does not work about your current yard and how you want to use it. That gives us a far better starting point than choosing every material in advance.

You should expect a valid license and insurance, a clear design you understand, a written proposal that describes the work, materials and exclusions, a written contract that complies with California law, permits pulled for the work that requires them, a clean and safe job site, regular communication, written change orders, and a final walkthrough with operating instructions and warranty information. We bring Richard Lusk’s 50 years of experience to those responsibilities.

Today's pool and spa lights are energy-efficient LED fixtures, often with color-changing options controlled from your phone or automation system. The number and placement of lights affects how evenly the water glows at night. Pool lighting is installed and bonded to strict electrical safety standards. We coordinate pool lighting with landscape lighting so the whole backyard looks great after dark.

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For all waterline and submerged tile work, Richard Lusk Landscape and Design uses the LATICRETE pool tile system: LATICRETE 3701 Fortified Mortar to build up and true the surface, LATICRETE HYDRO BAN waterproofing membrane, and LATICRETE 254 Platinum thin-set mortar to bond the tile. Using one manufacturer's tested, compatible system gives submerged tile the best chance of a strong, long-lasting bond in a continuously wet, chemically treated environment.

We plan construction throughout the year, but the best schedule depends on the location and scope. Coastal rain, hillside access after storms, strong winds and La Quinta’s summer heat can affect working conditions, material placement and curing. Design and permits also need time before construction. Contact us well before your preferred completion date so the plan accounts for your property, weather and local work restrictions.

Avoid trees with aggressive surface roots that can damage the pool shell, plumbing or decking, and trees that drop heavy amounts of leaves, flowers, fruit, seeds or sap into the water. Deciduous trees directly beside a pool create cleaning work, and some palms and pines can drop debris year-round. We choose poolside trees with manageable roots and low litter, and place them at the right distance from the water.

We install low-voltage LED landscape lighting systems with quality fixtures for path lighting, uplighting trees, wall washing, step lights, hardscape lights and underwater accents. LED fixtures are energy-efficient and long-lasting, and modern systems can be controlled by timers, astronomical clocks or smartphone apps with zones and dimming. We design the lighting as part of your complete landscape.

Explore Landscape Lighting →

We build custom in-ground concrete pools and spas with engineered steel reinforcement and pneumatically applied concrete. This allows a wide range of shapes, depths, spas, shelves and water features within the limits of the site and engineering. We coordinate the shell, equipment, waterproofing, finishes and surrounding landscape as one project in Orange County, selected Los Angeles areas and La Quinta.

We install concrete pavers, porcelain pavers, travertine and other natural stone pavers, and permeable pavers in many sizes, colors and textures. Concrete pavers are durable and versatile; porcelain offers a refined, low-maintenance modern look; natural stone selections need to be checked for wet use, maintenance and heat underfoot. We help you select the paver that best fits your design, use and budget.

Popular water features include sheer descents and waterfalls from raised walls, deck jets and laminar jets that arc into the pool, bubblers on tanning shelves, scuppers, spillover spas, fire-and-water bowls, and rock waterfalls. Each feature needs plumbing and pump capacity, so we plan them during design, not as afterthoughts. We help you choose features that suit your style and how you like the pool to sound and look.

You can swim once the pool has been finished, filled, balanced and started up according to the interior finish manufacturer's startup instructions, and once the required safety features are in place and final inspection is complete. Startup chemistry is especially important in the first weeks for plaster, quartz and pebble finishes. We walk you through the startup process and tell you when it is safe to swim.

The Board of Forestry reports that final administrative review is still underway. Its approved approach applies the new requirements to covered new construction once the regulations become effective. Existing properties have phased requirements, including changes within three years and additional work within five years, subject to the applicable agency’s schedule. Existing defensible-space obligations continue to apply. Visit the Board of Forestry’s Zone Zero information page for updates, and confirm your property’s deadlines with your local fire authority.

References: California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

Permit and engineering requirements depend on the responsible city or county, the wall’s total structural height, slopes, retained soil and any surcharge from a driveway, pool or building. A short visible wall can still need engineering or a permit. We check the actual property requirements and design conditions rather than apply a height rule borrowed from another jurisdiction.

Drip irrigation is ideal for shrubs, perennials, trees and planting beds, because it delivers water slowly to the root zone with minimal evaporation, overspray and runoff. It is generally not used for lawn areas. A good drip system is laid out around plant size and soil type and includes filtration and pressure regulation. It needs periodic inspection for clogs or damage. We design each zone for the plants it serves.

Consider replacement when the existing layout does not suit your needs or when major structural changes and repairs are being combined. The right comparison includes the finished result, surrounding restoration, engineering and disruption, not just one price. Inspection may show that keeping the pool is practical, or that starting fresh gives you a better pool for a similar investment. We give you an honest recommendation, not a sales pitch.

A soils (geotechnical) report may be required by the city or county, or recommended for hillside lots, sites with fill or expansive clay soil, nearby slopes, or significant structural work such as retaining walls and pools near structures. A licensed geotechnical engineer evaluates site conditions and provides design recommendations. We confirm early whether your project needs a report, who arranges it, and how its findings will shape the engineering and price, so assumptions do not turn into surprises.

Select the appliances early, during design, because each model has specific cutout dimensions, ventilation requirements, clearances and utility needs that shape the island. A generic opening can cause problems when the final appliance arrives. We confirm who purchases the appliances and when they must be on site, and we build the island to the actual specifications of your selected grill, side burners, refrigerator and other equipment.

Early—before committing to the final pool layout, planting plan, gates or outdoor structures. Identifying required reviews at the beginning helps reduce redesign and scheduling problems. Review times and fees vary by agency, project complexity, submission completeness and corrections, so they should be confirmed for the individual project.

References: OCFA — Planning & Development Services ↗ · Los Angeles County Fire — Fuel Modification ↗

Plan both at the very beginning. Pool equipment needs a practical, serviceable location with reasonable plumbing runs, and noise and visibility should be considered. An automatic cover influences pool shape, coping and where the cover mechanism and its housing go. Treating either as a late add-on can force changes to otherwise finished design decisions. We incorporate the selected manufacturer's details and safety requirements into your plans from the start.

Your warranty terms are written in the Scope of Work that is part of your contract with Richard Lusk Landscape and Design. Manufacturer warranties for pool equipment, appliances, lighting and other products are included in the documentation we give you when your project is completed. Keep these documents with your contract and change orders.

We use RedGard wherever we mortar-set stone or tile over a concrete subbase, such as patios, pool decks, steps, landings, outdoor kitchen surfaces, seat walls, fireplaces and other hardscape. It goes on the concrete before the stone or tile, creating a continuous membrane beneath the finished surface. For submerged and waterline pool tile, we use the LATICRETE pool system, which is designed for continuous water immersion.

We are based in Newport Beach, California. We design and build residential pool and landscape projects across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta. You can reach us at 800-808-7510 or info@richardlusk.com, or through the contact form at richardlusk.com.

Store pool chemicals in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area out of the reach of children and pets, away from heat sources and from incompatible products, and never mix chemicals together. Always follow each product's label instructions. We discuss chemical storage when planning your equipment area, and your pool-care professional can advise you on the specific products used at your property.

A new pool typically needs a building permit from the city or county responsible for the property, with review of the structure, plumbing, electrical work, heating and safety features. Depending on the site, grading, drainage, planning, coastal, fire or HOA approvals may also be needed. Coto de Caza uses Orange County jurisdiction; Los Angeles neighborhoods and separate incorporated cities have different review paths; La Quinta has its own city process. We establish the path from your actual address and scope.

We are based in Newport Beach and serve Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta. Orange County coverage includes Coto de Caza, Newport Beach, Newport Coast and Corona del Mar. Our Los Angeles-area locations are Bel-Air, Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills Gateway, Holmby Hills, Beverly Park, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Hidden Hills, Hancock Park and Los Feliz. The Service Areas page lists all 29 location guides. Tell us your project address and scope to arrange a complimentary site visit.

We serve Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Tustin, Villa Park, Yorba Linda and Coto de Caza. Coto de Caza is an unincorporated community in Orange County. We also serve selected Los Angeles areas and La Quinta; see our service-area guides for the full list.

We focus on luxury pool and landscape projects across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta. Our Orange County service areas include Coto de Caza and coastal communities, and each listed Los Angeles area has its own guide on the website. Share your project city or ZIP code when you contact us so we can discuss your property and the scope of work.

The code edition generally depends on when the permit application is submitted. Applications submitted before January 1, 2026 are generally evaluated under the prior energy standards; applications filed on or after that date fall under the 2025 Energy Code, including the new pool heating requirements. We confirm the applicable code with the responsible building department for your project.

Responsibilities are assigned in our written Scope of Work. A complete outdoor project may involve a structural engineer, civil engineer, geotechnical engineer, surveyor, the city or county, and your HOA. As a design-build company, we coordinate these items for you and clearly state who arranges and pays for each one, so nothing falls through the cracks.

Richard Lusk Landscape and Design, Inc. is a residential landscape and swimming pool design-build company based in Newport Beach, California. Richard Lusk began designing and building landscapes and pools in June 1976, right out of college, and has successfully completed more than 3,000 projects since then. We design and build complete outdoor properties across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta, including custom pools and spas, hardscape, outdoor kitchens, fire features, retaining walls, drainage, irrigation, planting and lighting. We are licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB License #950714) with C-27 Landscaping and C-53 Swimming Pool classifications.

Contact us at 800-808-7510 or info@richardlusk.com. Tell us what you are seeing, and include photographs if possible. Items covered by our warranty, as described in your Scope of Work, are handled by our team, and we can help you contact manufacturers about equipment warranty issues.

You work directly with the Richard Lusk Landscape and Design team, with Richard Lusk's 50 years of experience behind every project. Because we are a design-build company, the same organization is responsible for your design, your budget and your construction. You will have a clear point of contact throughout the project, and you will not be handed off between unrelated companies.

Experience helps with the work beneath the finished surfaces: drainage, soils, retaining walls, construction access, sequencing and material performance. Richard Lusk brings 50 years of pool and landscape experience across his career, rather than 50 years in one county. Today we apply that experience to properties across Orange County, selected Los Angeles cities and neighborhoods, and La Quinta, evaluating the actual coastal, hillside, inland or desert conditions before recommending a solution.

Bids vary because contractors include different scopes, materials, assumptions and levels of supporting work. One bid may include drainage, engineering, permits and high-quality base preparation; another may leave them out or treat them as extras later. Our complimentary detailed scope of work and budget lists what is included and excluded, so you can compare scope against scope and understand where differences come from.

Because a plan drawn without a budget often turns into a beautiful design that costs far more than expected, followed by painful cuts. Our complimentary site visit leads to a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget. Once you approve that budget and hire us, we create your plan with the budget in mind, then review the plan with you and adjust the plan and budget together. Building the budget in detail first also reduces the likelihood of unforeseen change orders during construction.

Concrete naturally shrinks and moves, and hairline cracks in a concrete slab can travel up through the mortar and crack the tile or stone above it. RedGard is an anti-fracture (crack isolation) membrane that separates the finished surface from minor movement in the concrete below, and it also helps keep water out of the installation. We use it on every project with mortar-set stone or tile over a concrete subbase because it protects your investment in premium materials.

Water chemistry changes constantly with sun, heat, rain, swimmers and debris. Regular testing tells you whether sanitizer, pH and alkalinity are in the right range to protect swimmers, finishes and equipment. A new pool needs especially careful attention during the startup period while the finish cures. Automation and salt systems make care easier, but they do not eliminate testing. Follow the finish manufacturer's startup instructions, then keep a consistent care routine.

Common causes include grades that slope toward the house, compacted clay soil that does not absorb water, downspouts that discharge onto the yard, clogged or undersized drains, runoff from neighboring properties, and paving without proper drainage. We investigate the cause and design a drainage solution that collects water and discharges it to an approved location.

Tile can fail because of movement, inadequate preparation or mortar coverage, incompatible materials, poor detailing, water conditions or insufficient curing. We investigate the cause before replacing it. Our approach includes a suitable substrate, the specified LATICRETE waterproofing and bonding system, movement joints and the required curing and startup sequence. Waterproofing alone cannot correct an unstable shell or guarantee against every future failure.

References: LATICRETE swimming pool design manual ↗

The base is what keeps paving level, stable and crack-resistant for years. Proper excavation, compacted aggregate base, drainage and the correct installation method for the material and load, such as a driveway versus a patio, are essential. Two bids for the "same" patio can differ greatly in what is underneath. We specify the base preparation for every hardscape surface we build.

The waterline is the hardest-working tile in a pool: it is constantly wet, goes through wet and dry cycles as the water level changes, and is exposed to sun, pool chemicals and calcium buildup. Water that gets behind the tile can weaken the bond and leach minerals that cause white efflorescence. A waterproofing membrane such as LATICRETE HYDRO BAN behind the tile protects the bond and the pool shell.

Because a price without a site visit is not meaningful. Two pools that look alike in photographs can differ greatly in cost because of access, soil conditions, slopes, engineering, equipment and finishes. Instead of publishing numbers that would not apply to your property, Richard Lusk Landscape and Design provides a complimentary site visit and a complimentary detailed scope of work and budget based on your actual site and goals.

Water pressure behind a wall is one of the most common causes of retaining wall failure. Properly designed walls include drainage, such as a perforated subdrain, gravel backfill and weep holes or outlets, to relieve water pressure and carry water to an approved outlet. These parts are buried after backfill, so they must be built correctly the first time. We build every retaining wall to its engineered drainage details.

Poor drainage can damage buildings, pool decks, retaining walls and planting, and can erode or destabilize slopes. Coastal and inland winter storms and intense desert storms all need an appropriate route for runoff. We evaluate the grades, soils, incoming water and approved discharge points for the actual property, then define the drainage improvements in the project scope.

RedGard changes from pink when wet to red as it dries. That is a useful visual check, but color alone does not establish the required film thickness, complete coverage or readiness for every application. We follow the current product instructions for substrate preparation, coverage, coats, drying and subsequent work, including checks for thin spots and pinholes.

References: CUSTOM Building Products: RedGard ↗

Damaged, missing or incorrectly selected suction-outlet covers can create serious entrapment hazards. During a remodel we evaluate the outlets, covers, plumbing and pump flow against the requirements for that pool and the manufacturer’s instructions. Public-pool rules should not simply be assumed to describe every private residential installation. Never operate a pool or spa with a missing or broken drain cover; keep it closed until a qualified professional makes it safe.

Hiring one licensed company for both gives you a single design, a single schedule and a single point of accountability. When a pool builder and a separate landscaper work on the same yard, details such as deck elevations, drainage, irrigation sleeves, lighting conduit and equipment locations often fall between the two contracts. Richard Lusk Landscape and Design holds both the C-53 Swimming Pool and C-27 Landscaping licenses, so we coordinate all of it from the start.

Grouping plants with similar water needs, called hydrozoning, lets each irrigation zone water exactly what its plants need. When thirsty and drought-tolerant plants share a zone, one group is always over- or under-watered. Sun exposure, soil and plant maturity also influence the arrangement. We plan irrigation zones during planting design so the landscape looks good and uses water efficiently.

Using a coordinated manufacturer system helps us verify material compatibility, preparation, curing and the installation details as a whole. Warranty coverage still depends on the specific products, application and written terms; it is not automatic merely because the containers carry one brand. For pool tile, we use the specified LATICRETE system and confirm the requirements for the actual tile, substrate and water exposure.

References: LATICRETE swimming pool design manual ↗

A new pool or other qualifying new construction can affect the assessed value of your property. Treatment depends on the improvement and the county assessor’s determination. Contact the Orange County Assessor for Orange County property, the Los Angeles County Assessor for Los Angeles-area property, or the Riverside County Assessor for La Quinta. Your tax advisor can explain the effect on your particular property; a website estimate should not be treated as a tax assessment.

Construction access does affect the areas used to reach the backyard. We plan the access route carefully and protect surfaces where practical. On a complete design-build project, most of these areas are being rebuilt anyway. When access crosses areas that are not part of the new design, our scope states how they will be protected or restored, so you know what to expect.

Not necessarily. The Board-approved framework distinguishes a noncombustible safety area closest to vulnerable building features from other portions of Zone Zero. Certain maintained, low-growing, non-woody plants may be allowed outside that safety area, subject to size, spacing and placement limits. Traditional foundation shrubs and hedges should be reviewed individually before deciding what can remain.

References: California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗

Construction involves trucks, equipment noise and deliveries, so neighbors will notice some activity, especially during excavation and concrete work. We follow local work hours, keep the street and access areas clean, and coordinate deliveries to minimize disruption. If construction access or work near a shared wall involves a neighbor, we recommend talking with them early; we can help explain what to expect.

Where a certified Local Coastal Program applies, the city or county generally handles most Coastal Development Permits. The Coastal Commission retains direct permitting authority in certain areas and can hear appeals of certain local approvals. Your address and proposed project determine which agency or agencies are involved.

References: Coastal Commission — Local Coastal Programs ↗

In California, unpaid subcontractors and suppliers can record a mechanics lien on a property, which is why the CSLB encourages homeowners to understand the lien process and to request lien releases as payments are made. California home improvement contracts include a Notice to Owner explaining lien rights. Ask us how lien releases are handled for your project; protecting you is part of building responsibly.

No one can honestly promise crack-free concrete. Concrete shrinks as it cures and moves with temperature and soil. Good design, proper base preparation, reinforcement, correctly spaced control joints and careful placement and curing minimize cracking and direct it to the joints. We explain our approach for your project, and the warranties that apply to our work are described in our Scope of Work.

Yes. At completion, we walk you through every system: pool and spa equipment, automation, heating, lighting, water features, irrigation controllers and landscape lighting. We explain startup care for your pool finish and the establishment needs of new plants. You will receive written operating and care information for reference.

The approved framework targets combustible connections that can carry fire toward a home. It calls for a five-foot noncombustible section where a fence or gate attaches to, or comes within one foot of, a covered structure. It also restricts new combustible fencing within Zone Zero. It does not require wholesale replacement of every existing wooden fence.

References: California Board of Forestry — Zone Zero rules and updates ↗