Minnesota Public Pool Safety and Operation Rules

All public pools, including those at apartments, hotels, condominiums, schools, and health clubs, must operate under a Minnesota Department of Health license per Minn. Stat. 144.1222. Chapter 4717 sets requirements for daily water testing, chlorine and pH ranges, depth markers, anti-entrapment drain covers per the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act, lifeguard staffing for pools over 1,800 square feet, posted safety rules, rescue equipment, telephone access, and incident reporting. Bather load is capped by pool surface area. Pools must close within 30 minutes of a fecal contamination event for treatment. Inspections occur at least annually.

Operating without a license is a misdemeanor. MDH may order immediate closure for contamination, missing lifeguards, or unsafe drains. Fines accrue per day of noncompliance.