Kentucky Statewide Rule
Kentucky Public Pool Safety and Health Standards
Key Facts
- Regulation
- 902 KAR 10:120
- Federal Tie-In
- VGB Pool Safety Act
- Inspector
- Local health departments
- Operator Cert
- Required
- Scope
- Public pools and spas
Summary
Kentucky regulates public swimming pools, spas, and aquatic facilities through 902 KAR 10:120, setting uniform safety, sanitation, and lifeguard standards. Local health departments inspect facilities, but substantive safety rules are established statewide and cannot be weakened locally.
(2) (a) Lifeguards shall be required at all Class A and Class B pools if the pool facility meets at least one (1) of the following criteria: 1. Allows persons seventeen (17) years of age or younger to enter the pool facility enclosure without a responsible adult eighteen (18) years or older; 2. Contains features such as induced waves or slides that are available for use; or 3. Contains an entry into the pool from a height above the deck from a diving board, platform, climbing wall or other similar feature, that is available for use. (b) If a Class A or Class B pool meets any of the criteria in paragraph (a) of this subsection, it shall provide one (1) lifeguard for each one (1) to one hundred (100) bathers.
Full Breakdown
Under 902 KAR 10:120, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services regulates public and semi-public pools, requiring permits, water quality testing, depth markings, anti-entrapment drain covers compliant with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, and safety equipment including life rings and shepherds crooks. Lifeguards are required at certain occupancy levels. Pool operators must hold certification. Private residential pools fall under building code barrier rules but are exempt from public pool sanitation standards. Local health departments enforce the regulations through routine inspections.
Violations & Penalties
Operating a public pool without a permit or with safety violations can result in closure, daily civil penalties, and revocation of operating permits by the local health department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are residential pools covered by Kentucky public pool rules?
Are anti-entrapment drain covers required?
Who inspects pools in Kentucky?
Sources
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