Raleigh, NC Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

Raleigh pool safety requirements extend well beyond enclosure standards. NC Gen Stat Sec 130A-282 requires that all residential and public pools and spas be equipped with drain covers compliant with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) to prevent suction entrapment. Dual main drains or alternative suction-limiting systems are required on new installations, and older single-drain pools must either add a secondary drain or install a safety vacuum release system (SVRS). Replacement of a damaged or missing drain cover is mandatory before reopening the pool. Electrical grounding and bonding of all metallic pool components, including handrails, ladders, and underwater lights, is required under the NC Electrical Code, inspected at rough-in. For public and semi-public pools, including pools at apartment complexes, HOAs, fitness clubs, and hotels, NC Department of Health and Human Services rules 15A NCAC 18A .2500 apply: annual operating permits, daily water quality testing, certified pool operator on staff (Certified Pool Operator or Aquatic Facility Operator credential), posted emergency phone numbers and capacity limits, and lifeline/buoy equipment. Diving boards and slides must be anchored per manufacturer instructions and the pool depth must exceed NSPI-1 standards for the board height; many Raleigh HOAs have removed boards rather than retrofit pools. Raleigh Parks and Recreation operates 9 public pools subject to the full state permit regime. Residential pool owners are not subject to permit inspections after the initial build but must maintain functioning barriers, drain covers, and safe electrical systems indefinitely. Drownings trigger insurance claims and potential civil liability under NC negligence law regardless of ordinance compliance.