Cleveland, OH Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

Beyond the fence barrier, Cleveland pools must comply with federal and state safety standards. All suction outlets require anti-entrapment drain covers meeting ANSI/APSP-16 and the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. Single-drain pools require a safety vacuum release system, a gravity drainage system, or conversion to dual drains spaced appropriately. Electrical systems follow NEC Article 680 with bonding of all metal components within five feet of the pool, GFCI protection for pump circuits, luminaires, and receptacles within 20 feet, and licensed electrician installation. Pool lights at 120 volts require GFCI protection and must use junction boxes rated for wet locations. Slip-resistant deck surfaces are required within three feet of the pool edge. Door alarms are required on any dwelling door opening into a pool area when the dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier. Power safety covers that meet ASTM F1346 may be used in place of door alarms. Pool heaters must be installed with code-compliant clearances and venting. Public and semi-public pools serving apartment buildings or clubs are additionally inspected by the Cleveland Department of Public Health under Ohio pool licensing rules. Drowning prevention best practices include supervised swimming, reaching and throwing aids on deck, and ring buoys for larger pools.