pics of leaves and flowers are helpful, but I'm going to guess Ceiba speciosa (Chorisia speciosa) a huge tree.

Yes it is quite distinctive. I picked the correct genis id from the thread title alone. ;) That tree can get quite large; 30-60'.
The white-flowering C. insignis is also sometimes grown, but it is much less common. Beautiful flowers on both. Some grafted plants have very few thorns on the trunk.

Yes, a beautiful tree. Move or kill it now. That is far too close to the house, unfortunately.
Renee

Thanks so much everyone. You've been really helpful. I will recommend moving the tree to a better location. Anyone know a good landscaper who moves trees?

They are not expensive and not rare.

Best just to cut it down and plant a new one, if you want one.

and quite fast growing and good sized even as a cheap 5 gallon size. I'd agree, a new one is probably simpler than trying to move the existing one at that size.

Is this the tree that makes the big pods that split open and soft white fluff comes out?

yes, at least it's one of several Ceiba species that have fluffy seed pods, and likely the most commonly planted here in California.

This tree is in my backyard unfortunately I have to cut it down,the cotton balls are ruin my neighbors pool,does anyone no if I can cut it with a regular 4inch chainsaw.Im a little concern about the thorns

Sometimes, just because you "can" doesn't necessarily mean you should. ;-) How large is the tree you need to cut down, pbrown? What structures, fences and other landscape material etc. are close enough to be damaged? Do you have any experience cutting down trees? Seriously, the thorns wouldn't be what I was most worried about.