Public Swimming Pools and Spas

Public Swimming Pools and Spas 

The Public Swimming Pools Program staff inspect all public swimming pools in Pinellas County twice per year. A Public Swimming Pool is any facility used by the public or shared by five or more living units. Water is checked to ensure the correct chemistry is maintained to prevent contamination and the spread of waterborne diseases.

Another important part of the inspection is to ensure that the required safety equipment is provided and accessible if needed. This includes a life ring and shepherd's hook, as well as the requirements of the Virginia Grame Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.

The filter equipment is examined for correct operation and compliance to ensure healthy and safe water. Public Swimming Facilities are regulated by Florida Administrative Code 64E-9.

Drowning Prevention 

Drowning Prevention: Our division is represented on the local Safe Kids Coalition Water Safety Committee. The committee works to increase awareness of the “Layers of Protection”, which prevent children from accessing swimming pools and spas when parental/caregiver supervision is interrupted for any length of time. Visit WaterSmartFL.com for more information about the layers of protection around your pool.

Inspections Include 

• Using a highly accurate and professional test kit to ensure that the sanitizer level, chlorine stabilizer and pH are in compliance; we also check alkalinity and calcium hardness levels to ensure balanced water.
• Ensuring that safety equipment is provided and accessible if needed. This includes a life ring and shepherd's hook.
• Inspecting the filtration equipment of the pool, including the filter, pump, flow rate and valves
• Inspection of ladders, steps, tiles, decks and handrails to ensure safe entry and exit from the pool.

Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County is also one of 13 counties that have a Professional Engineer on staff to review construction plans for new pools as well as modifications to existing pools. Our inspectors ensure that the work is completed according to the approved plans before any permit is issued.

Pool School 

We offer a 4-hour Pool School to help operators keep a safe and healthy pool. Call our office at the number above for the next available class. There is a $25.00 fee for the class and textbook.

VIDEO:
Check this out Mom and Dad!
Pool and Water Safety!

Additional Resources 

• FloridaHealth.gov Website
• Make Pool Fun Cool—and Safe—This Summer

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Where can I see inspection results for a Health Department inspected facility?

  Follow these instructions.

• What if the Property where the pool is located has sold or changed ownership?

  Please download the following form:
  The Initial Ownership/Change of Owner

Inspection Results