Delaware Statewide Rule

Delaware Public Pool Lifeguard and Safety Rules

Significant RestrictionsApplies statewide across Delaware (2026)

Key Facts

Lifeguard required: Pools deeper than 4 feet
Lifeguard stand: Pools over 2,000 sq ft
Warning sign letters: At least 4 inches high
Ring buoy: 18-24 inches, 50-foot line
Enforcer: DHSS Division of Public Health

Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

Delaware requires every public pool deeper than four feet to keep a lifeguard on duty whenever it is open. Pools larger than 2,000 square feet need a lifeguard stand, and any unguarded pool must post a WARNING NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY sign.

9.6.1 Unless exempted by 16 Del.C., each pool that is greater than four (4) feet deep (any portion) shall have a lifeguard on duty when the pool is open. ... 9.8.1.1 "WARNING NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY" in letters at least four (4) inches high along with "CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF SIXTEEN (16) SHOULD BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR GUARDIAN" ... 9.9.1 All pools with a water surface area greater than two thousand (2000) square feet shall have at least one (1) lifeguard stand.

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Full Breakdown

The Delaware Health and Social Services Division of Public Health enforces 16 DE Admin. Code 4464 (Public Swimming Pools), adopted under 16 Del.C. Section 122. Any pool more than four feet deep at any point must have a certified lifeguard on duty while open; pools that only need an attendant still cannot allow unsupervised solo bathing. Pools over 2,000 square feet require a lifeguard stand at poolside. Exempt or shallow unguarded pools must post the warning sign at entrances. Every unguarded pool must carry a ring buoy 18 to 24 inches in diameter on at least 50 feet of line, and all public pools operate under a permit and inspection system.

Violations & Penalties

The Division of Public Health inspects and permits every public pool. Operating without the required lifeguard, attendant, rescue equipment, or warning sign can trigger citations, permit suspension, and an order closing the pool until the hazard is corrected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every Delaware public pool need a lifeguard?

No. Motel, hotel, and private-campground pools are exempt but must have an attendant. Pools four feet deep or shallower may operate unguarded if they post the required warning sign.

What sign must an unguarded Delaware pool post?

WARNING NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY in four-inch letters, plus CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF SIXTEEN (16) SHOULD BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR GUARDIAN in one-inch letters.

Sources

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