Maryland Safety Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Regulation: COMAR 10.17.01
Authority: Md. Health-Gen. 24-209
Drain rule: VGB Act compliant
Applies to: Public, semi-public pools

Full Breakdown

Maryland Health-General Section 24-209 authorizes the Department of Health to regulate public swimming pools and spas. COMAR 10.17.01 imposes statewide standards on water chemistry, recirculation, depth markings, drain covers compliant with the Virginia Graeme Baker Act, lifeguard staffing for pools serving the public, certified pool operators, daily testing logs, and posted rules. Local health departments enforce the regulations and issue annual operating licenses. While private single-family residential pools are exempt, the rules cover apartment, hotel, club, HOA, and similar semi-public pools uniformly across Maryland.

Violations & Penalties

License suspension; closure orders; fines up to $1,000 per violation per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Maryland require lifeguards at apartment pools?

It depends on the pool classification. COMAR 10.17.01 requires lifeguards at most public pools but allows certain semi-public pools at apartments and HOAs to operate without lifeguards if proper signage and safety equipment are present.

Are private home pools regulated under COMAR 10.17.01?

No. Single-family residential pools are exempt from the public pool regulations but must still comply with the state-adopted building code and any local fencing ordinances.

Maryland Public Pool Safety Rules Under COMAR 10.17.01

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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