Public Swimming Pools
The Minnesota Department of Health administers the Minnesota Pool Code and conducts Plan Review and inspection of pool construction or alteration.
What is a Public Pool?
A "Public pool" includes any pool, other than a private residential pool operated by any person whether the person is an owner, lessee, operator, or concessionaire. Pools include swimming pools, spa pools (hot tubs), waterparks, plunge pools with flume slides, therapy pools, wave pools, splash pads and interactive water features. Public pools are those located in parks, schools, licensed child care facilities, Home Owners Associations, group homes, motels, camps, resorts, apartment buildings, clubs, condominiums and hotels or any licensed lodging facility.
What requirements must public pool owners and builders in Minnesota follow?
Requirements for pools are contained in the Minnesota Pool Code (Minnesota Rules, Chapter 4717). Some of the Minnesota Pool Code requirements include:
- Plan Review: The construction or alteration of a pool requires submittal and approval of plans and specifications. Plan review requires a fee. Construction cannot begin before plans are approved.
- Construction: Pools must be constructed in accordance with the appropriate construction standards
- Personnel Training: Pools must be operated and maintained by trained personnel.
- Recordkeeping and Reporting: Operation and maintenance recordkeeping and reporting is required.
- Equipment & Signage: Lifesaving equipment and Signage is required.
- Access and Fencing: Access to Pools must be controlled to prevent unintended access.
- Water Sanitation and Condition: Pool water must be controlled and maintained in a safe manner.
Local Authorities (such as Ramsey county, the Cities of Bloomington and Minneapolis) have additional requirements for pool construction, inspection and operation, so you should also check with them if you are building a pool.
Your local city building official will regulate the construction of a "Private Residential Pool", the one in your backyard. The Cities of Bloomington and Edina Attention: Non-MDH link Environmental Health Departments will also conduct a full health and safety review and inspection of a "Private Residential Pool".
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