West Virginia Public Bathing Place Barrier and Enclosure Rules

WV Code Chapter 16, Article 41 and Title 64 of the Code of State Rules establish design and operation standards for public bathing places, including hotels, apartments serving multiple units, clubs, and municipal pools. Regulations require a perimeter barrier at least four feet high, self-closing and self-latching gates, and openings small enough to prevent child entry. Decks must be slip-resistant, and depth markings, lifeguard stations, and rescue equipment are mandated. The Bureau for Public Health enforces these rules statewide. Residential pools serving a single family are exempt from state Public Bathing Place rules; fencing for these is governed by local codes adopting the State Building Code.

Operating a non-compliant public pool is a misdemeanor; the Bureau for Public Health may suspend or revoke permits and order closure until compliance is achieved.