South Carolina Statewide Rule
South Carolina Public Swimming Pool Safety Regulations
Key Facts
- Regulation
- SCDES R.61-51
- Statute
- SC Code 44-55-2310
- Covers
- Public, semi-public pools
- Drain covers
- VGB Act compliant
- Inspections
- Annual plus complaint
Summary
South Carolina regulates public and semi-public swimming pools under Regulation 61-51, now administered by SCDES (formerly DHEC), applying uniform safety, sanitation, and operator requirements statewide and preempting weaker local rules.
(A) As a condition of obtaining and maintaining an operating permit, all Type "A" public swimming pools, as defined in Regulation 61-51, shall provide lifeguards, as defined in Regulation 61-51, in accordance with the following:
Full Breakdown
Under SC Code Section 44-55-2310 and Regulation 61-51, all public swimming pools, spas, and water features must be permitted, inspected, and operated by trained personnel. The regulation sets uniform requirements for water-chemistry monitoring, anti-entrapment drain covers consistent with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act, depth markings, safety equipment, and lifeguard presence based on pool type. Hotel, apartment, and HOA pools are classified as semi-public and must meet the same construction and operational standards. SCDES issues operating permits annually and conducts unannounced inspections, and the construction permit process requires plan approval before building. Local governments cannot weaken the state pool-safety requirements.
Violations & Penalties
SCDES may close non-compliant pools, levy fines up to $1,000 per violation per day, suspend operating permits, and require corrective-action plans before reopening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are HOA and apartment pools regulated by South Carolina state?
Are anti-entrapment drain covers required in South Carolina pools?
Sources
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