Rhode Island Statewide Rule
Rhode Island Swimming Pool Safety: License Required (§ 23-22-6)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-22-6
- Enforcing agency
- RI Department of Health
- License terms
- Year-round or seasonal
- Penalty
- Up to $50 per day
- Inspections
- Periodic RIDOH inspection
Summary
Rhode Island bans operating any swimming pool without a Department of Health license under R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-22-6. RIDOH sets safety and sanitation rules, inspects pools, and can suspend or revoke a license.
No person shall maintain within this state a swimming pool until that person shall have obtained the appropriate license from the department.
Full Breakdown
No one may maintain a swimming pool in Rhode Island without first obtaining a license from the Department of Health (RIDOH) under § 23-22-6(a). Licenses are year-round (expiring December 31) or seasonal (June 1 to September 30). RIDOH writes the binding safety and sanitation rules (§ 23-22-2), inspects pools periodically (§ 23-22-3), and runs chemical and bacteriological water analyses (§ 23-22-4). The department may deny, suspend, or revoke a license (§§ 23-22-7, 23-22-8), and condominium pools must meet the lifeguard rules of § 23-22-15. Cities and towns enforce alongside RIDOH.
Violations & Penalties
Operating or maintaining a pool without a valid RIDOH license, or breaking any Chapter 23-22 rule, is punishable under § 23-22-12 by a fine of up to $50 per offense, with each day a separate offense. RIDOH may also suspend or revoke the license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a state license to run a public pool in Rhode Island?
What is the penalty for an unlicensed or non-compliant pool?
Who inspects Rhode Island swimming pools?
Sources
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