Public Swimming Pools and Spas Code (PDF)
The Alameda County Health, Environmental Health Department provides inspection services to ensure that public pools, spas, beaches, and other water sports contact areas are maintained in accordance with Health and Safety Code standards. View the Code Book here.
FAQs
Do I Need a Permit to Operate my Swimming Pool or Spa?
All commercial and public swimming pools or spas are required to have a permit to operate issued by this Department. Private pools and spas intended for use by occupants of no more than three residential units do not require a permit from this Department.
Does the Alameda County Health, Environmental Health Department Need to be Contacted Before Constructing, Remodeling, or Altering a Commercial Swimming Pool or Spa?
Yes, you must contact our Department before constructing, remodeling or altering any commercial swimming pool or spa. Please call us at (510) 567-6700. Additional information can be found on the Plan Review page.
What are the Basic Chemical Levels Required for my Pool/Spa?
- Pools: The required chlorine residual is 1.0-10.0ppm of free chlorine without CYA and 2.0-10.0 with CYA. The minimum Bromine Residual is 2.0ppm.
- Spas, Wading Pools and Spray Ground: The required chlorine residual is 3.0-10.0ppm of free chlorine with or without CYA. The minimum Bromine Residual is 4.0 ppm.
- The pH is required to be 7.2-7.8.
- Cyanuric Acid maximum is 100ppm.
- Pool water temperature maximum is 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
What Are the Required Safety Signs?
The required safety signs are as following: Pool User Capacity Sign, No Diving Sign for pools with maximum depth of 6 feet, No Lifeguard on Duty Sign, Artificial Respiration and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Sign, 911 Emergency Telephone Number Sign, Warning Sign for a spa, Emergency Shut off Switch Sign for a spa, No Use After Dark Sign for pools with insufficient lighting, Keep Closed Sign on all gates, and Diarrhea Sign posted at all entrances.
Do I Need to Contact the ACEHD Before I Build or Change a Fence Around my Swimming Pool?
Yes, Public pools and spas are required to have enclosures and gates that meet specific criteria. Please contact us at (510) 567-6700. Additional submittal information can be found on our Plan Review page.
Why Was My Pool Closed?
Pools can be closed for various reasons, such as improper chemical levels of chlorine and pH, fecal accidents, cloudy water, missing/loose drain covers, gates not self-closing and self-latching, fencing issues, circulation issues, and safety equipment missing or non-functioning. Please contact our office at (510) 567-6700 for specific details.
What is the VGB Act? Why is it Important?
The Virginia Graeme Baker (VGB) Pool and Spa Safety Act (Act) promotes the safe use of pools and spas by imposing mandatory federal requirements for the prevention of suction entrapment and drowning hazards. The Act became effective December 19, 2008, and requires specific American National Standard ASME A112.19.9-2007 safety drain covers on all public pool and spa suction and drain outlets. The Consumer Product Safety Commission administers the Act. In the state of California AB1020 became effective in 2009 and is the equivalent law adopted and enforced by the local enforcement agency representing the California Department of Public Health.
How Often Do the Drain Covers to the Pool/Spa Need to Be Changed?
The expiration of drain covers will vary by manufacturer. Check with the manufacturer.
How Do I Get a Copy of the Pool Report?
Please contact us at (510) 567-6700. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding holidays.
If I Have Any Other Questions, Comments, Or Complaints, How Do I Contact You?
Please contact us at (510) 567-6700. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding holidays.