Maine state law: public pool safety rules

Per 22 MRS § 1623 et seq. (Public swimming pools, hot tubs and spa pools), public and semi-public swimming pools, hot tubs, spas, and special-use pools in Maine, including pools at hotels, motels, apartment complexes, condominium and HOA common areas, fitness clubs, summer camps, water parks, and YMCAs, are licensed and regulated by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Health Inspection Program, under 10-144 CMR Chapter 202 (Rules Relating to Public Pools). 4 ppm); maintain required turnover/circulation rates; install Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act-compliant anti-entrapment drain covers; provide lifeguard staffing where required by occupancy and pool design; post depth markings at the deep and shallow ends; display 'No Diving' signs in shallow areas; properly store chemicals; and submit to scheduled and complaint-driven DHHS inspections. , they are governed only by MUBEC building/barrier rules (10 MRS § 9722) and common-law premises liability.

Operating a public/semi-public pool without a DHHS license, or operating with critical violations (improper chlorine, broken anti-entrapment cover, fecal contamination not addressed), can result in DHHS-ordered closure under 22 MRS § 1641, license suspension or revocation, and civil penalties. Repeat or knowing violations of public-health rules may trigger criminal liability under 22 MRS Title 22.