Tennessee Statewide Rule
Tennessee Public Pool Safety and Inspection Rules
Key Facts
- Statute
- T.C.A. § 68-14-301 et seq.
- Inspections
- TDH permit and inspection
- VGB compliance
- Federally mandated
- Rule
- TDH Rule 1200-23-05
Summary
Tennessee Department of Health regulates public swimming pools statewide under the Public Swimming Pool Inspection Act (T.C.A. § 68-14-301 et seq.) and Rule 1200-23-05, requiring permits, inspections, and Virginia Graeme Baker drain compliance.
(g) Fencing. 1. All outside pools shall be protected by a wall, building, enclosure, or chain link fence with a minimum height of four (4) feet, or other functionally equivalent barriers approved by the Commissioner. 2. All openings in the barrier shall be equipped with self-closing and self-latching hardware for the permanent locking of gates or doors. 3. Fencing and/or barriers shall be maintained in good repair.
Full Breakdown
Public swimming pools, including those at apartments, hotels, and HOAs, must be permitted and inspected by the Tennessee Department of Health under the Hotel, Food Service Establishment and Public Swimming Pool Inspection Act of 1985, T.C.A. § 68-14-301 et seq. (commissioner authority at § 68-14-303), and Rule 1200-23-05. Operators must comply with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act for anti-entrapment drain covers, maintain water chemistry, post depth markings, and provide rescue equipment. These rules apply uniformly statewide and override conflicting local pool rules to the extent of conflict.
Violations & Penalties
Permit suspension, closure orders, civil penalties up to $500 per day per violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do HOA pools need state inspection in Tennessee?
Are lifeguards required at Tennessee public pools?
Sources
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