Oregon Statewide Rule
Oregon Public Swimming Pool Safety and Licensing Rules (ORS 448)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- ORS 448.011, 448.020, 448.035
- Enforcing agency
- Oregon Health Authority
- License required
- Yes, before operating any pool
- Penalty
- Class B misdemeanor, per-day offenses
- Detailed rules
- OAR chapter 333, division 60
Summary
Oregon requires every public swimming pool, spa pool, and wading pool to hold an Oregon Health Authority license and follow OHA safety, sanitation, and accident-prevention rules set under ORS 448.011 and 448.035, covering lifeguards, fencing, and water quality.
The Oregon Health Authority shall adopt rules pertaining to construction plan submission, plan approval, design, construction, size, shape, purification equipment, piping, operation, sanitation and accident prevention for public swimming pools, public spa pools, public wading pools and bathhouses as the authority deems necessary.
Full Breakdown
Under ORS 448.011, the Oregon Health Authority sets the binding rules for design, construction, purification equipment, operation, sanitation, and accident prevention at public swimming pools, spa pools, and wading pools. ORS 448.035 bars anyone from operating such a pool without an OHA license, and ORS 448.020 requires plan approval before construction or major alteration. OHA's rules under OAR chapter 333, division 60 spell out fencing, depth markings, reach-poles, life buoys, and lifeguard or attendant coverage. County environmental health programs inspect these facilities and enforce compliance on the authority's behalf.
Violations & Penalties
Operating a public pool without a license, or otherwise violating ORS 448.005 to 448.090, is a Class B misdemeanor, and each day the violation continues is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Oregon require a lifeguard at every public pool?
Do I need a license to open a public pool in Oregon?
Sources
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