Pool Facility Owner and Operator Resources

Rules and Guidelines

Washington State rules on construction and maintenance of regulated recreational water facilities such as swimming pools, spas, water parks, and wading pools. Regulated facilities include pools at athletic or private clubs, municipal or park facilities, hotels, motels, apartments, condominiums, mobile home parks, RV parks, and homeowner association communities.

See our guidelines to help you comply with state rules and federal law. Guidance documents to help you comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act include what you need to know about the federal law, selecting a new drain cover, single main drains, determining when plan review is required, and more.

Report Serious Injury and Illness

Pool owners or operators of regulated facilities must report any death, near drowning, serious injury, or communicable disease associated with the facility. Complete the form and contact your local health department within 48 hours of the incident. If you're unable to reach your local health department, contact us.

Injury Report Form (Word Fillable) – Report death, near drowning, or serious injury associated with your facility.

Illness Report Form (Word Fillable) – Report communicable disease associated with your facility.

Training for Pool Operators

Pool operators need to be properly trained in water chemistry and mechanical components to effectively maintain pools. The following trainings are available.

Internationally Recognized Training

Pool and Hot Tub Alliance's Certified Pool Operator courses

National Recreation and Park Association's Aquatic Facility Operator courses

State and Local Training

Washington State Environmental Health Association, in joint sponsorship with the Department of Health, typically offer training every spring.

Several local health agencies provide training, often in the spring. Contact the local health agencies in Grays Harbor, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, or Whatcom counties for information about their pool operator trainings.

Pool Rule Signs

Create your own pool safety rule signs using our template of rules that comply with WAC 246-260-131 (5). Rules for swimming, spa, wading, and spray pools are provided, as well as suggested rules for diving boards.

Pool Monitoring Log Sheets

Log sheet for documenting chemical treatment and maintenance of pools.

Swimming Pool Log Sheet (PDF) / Spanish (PDF)

Swimming Pool Log Sheet (Word Fillable Form) / Spanish (Word)

Spa, Wading, Recirculating Spray Pool Log Sheet (PDF) / Spanish (PDF)

Spa, Wading, Recirculating Spay Pool Log Sheet (Word Fillable Form) / Spanish (Word)

Shallow Water Lifeguards and Attendants

Shallow Water Lifeguards and Attendants (PDF) – Brochure that explains the use of shallow water lifeguards and attendants at private swimming club facilities.

Shallow Water Lifeguard and Attendant Training (PDF) – Training providers for shallow water lifeguards and attendants.

Water Clarity Monitoring

Kids Disappear When the Water's Not Clear (PDF) – Brochure on the importance of pool operators routinely monitoring pool water clarity to prevent drowning.