Pool Regulations for Public and Residential Pools
No matter where in the United States you’re located and regardless of whether you own a private pool or a public pool, all pools must meet local pool regulations, which generally cover everything related to pools, including construction, maintenance and management.
And although pool regulations vary by state, county and city, they generally aim to accomplish the same thing: making sure all pools are safe for swimmers. In order to make that happen, every aspect, including pool decks and pool electrical systems, must be properly constructed and maintained. And at public pools, there are additional aspects that must be managed.
Public Pool Rules and Regulations
While all pools must follow local pool building regulations, public pools are required to adhere to additional regulations that aren’t applicable to residential pools. Perhaps the biggest is lifeguards, who must be certified and may even be required to take additional safety courses.
Nighttime lighting is another example of a pool regulation that public pools may be required to follow that residential pools do not. As public pools are accessible to the public, they may be required to supply nighttime lighting — or at least leave lights on until a specific time.
Residential Pool Regulations
For residential above-ground pools and in-ground pools, local regulations are limited mostly to the initial construction and ongoing maintenance of the pool.
These regulations often include, but aren’t limited to:
- Drainage
- Water pumps
- Decking
- Electrical systems
- Water quality
Below are details related to regulations for each of these core swimming pool components.
Swimming Pool Drainage Regulations
The importance of pool drain regulations should not be understated — look no further than the horrible accident that occurred in 2002, when 7-year-old Virginia Graeme was pulled underwater against a hot tub drain and drowned because the suction was too strong.
This spurred the creation of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA), which upped the requirements for all pools, nationwide, in relation to their drainage systems.
Pool Pump Regulations
The water pump is one of the most important pieces of equipment on any pool — residential or public. They’re responsible for circulating the pool water, which helps keep it clean.
In order to ensure water pumps meet specific power requirements and energy efficiency standards, they’re regulated. In fact, next year, new pool pump standards will go into effect.
Pool Deck Regulations
Slip and fall accidents are no joke. In fact, falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
And while pool decks aren’t the only place people slip and fall, if you do, you may end up underwater. Falling into a pool is the last place you want to end up after hitting your head.
Swimming Pool Electrical Regulations
Pool electrical equipment is another key part of pool regulations. Obviously, electricity and water are a dangerous combination. Yet, without electricity, many core components, such as the water pump, that keep the swimming pool clean and functional aren’t operable.
On top of that, many pools, especially public pools, have additional electrical components, such as underwater lights and water heaters, that also require electricity, and on a much larger scale.
Pool Water Regulations
The difference between swimming in a pool versus a river or a lake really comes down to water quality. And when you’re responsible for the water, you need to be sure it’s not harmful to swimmers. Make sure you’re using the right amount of chemicals in your pool — yes, it is possible to use too many chemicals — and that you’re regularly checking the water quality.
Make sure your pool follows regulations. Get a pool inspection.
One of the best and easiest ways to make sure your pool is in line with all local pool regulations is to have it inspected. We recommend all pool owners get their pools inspected at least once a year by certified pool inspection professionals. Contact us to schedule an inspection today.