Westchester County, NY Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Sanitary Code § 873.1203
- Enforcing agency
- Westchester County Health Department
- Homeowner pools
- Exempt from this section
- Required sign
- Red-letter drowning warning at entrances
- Kids under 14
- Must be accompanied by adult
Summary
Public and semipublic pools in Westchester County must post a red-letter drowning-hazard warning sign, keep U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifesaving equipment on deck, and provide required supervision under the county Sanitary Code; homeowner pools are exempt.
Pool operators shall ensure the following safety message is posted on a separate sign at all entrances to pool areas and within the pool area. Such signage shall be in red letters, not less than 4 inches high, not less than 1.5 inches wide with the following message: ATTENTION ALL! CHILDREN DROWN SILENTLY AND SWIFTLY. PLEASE WATCH THEM IN AND AROUND THE WATER AT ALL TIMES.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 47).
Full Breakdown
Sanitary Code § 873.1203 sets aquatic-safety standards for public and semipublic pools, spa pools and wading pools regulated under State Sanitary Code Subpart 6-1: homeowner pools are excluded. Smaller pools (under 5 feet deep, 2,000 square feet or less) must keep ring buoys, a 15-foot reaching pole, a first-aid kit and a CPR face mask poolside; larger or more hazardous pools require rescue tubes, spine boards and lifeguard staffing. Every entrance must display a red-letter warning sign, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and a free 911 phone must be on site.
Violations & Fines
Violating any Sanitary Code Article XII provision is enforceable under § 873.218: up to $250 for a first offense, $500 for repeat violations, plus possible permit action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to my backyard pool?
What equipment must a small public pool keep on deck?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Westchester County
New York rules heatmap·Compare Westchester County to another location·View the New York swimming pools & spas overview
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