MoCo enforces pool safety under the county building code and COMAR 10.17.01. Anti-entrapment drain covers (VGBA) and GFCI protection (NEC 680) are required.
Residential pool safety in Montgomery County is governed by the county building code (based on the IRC) and, for community or semi-public pools, by COMAR 10.17.01 (Maryland Swimming Pool and Spa regulations). All pool drains must have anti-entrapment covers or systems compliant with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA). Single-drain pools must have a safety vacuum release system (SVRS) or equivalent. Electrical safety requires GFCI protection for all outlets within 20 feet of the pool edge, bonding of all metal components within 5 feet of the water, and compliance with NEC Article 680. Pool water must be maintained with proper chemical treatment; community pools must test and log chemical levels per COMAR 10.17.01. Diving boards and slides on residential pools must comply with minimum depth and clearance requirements. Suction outlet covers must be replaced every manufacturer-specified interval or when damaged. Montgomery County does not mandate lifeguards for private residential pools but strongly recommends adult supervision. Community pools serving HOAs or apartment complexes must comply with full COMAR 10.17.01 including lifeguard staffing at public swim times.
DPS may issue correction notices for safety deficiencies found during inspections. Community pool safety violations under COMAR 10.17.01 may result in pool closure by the county Health Department. Homeowners face civil liability for injuries related to non-compliant safety equipment.
Montgomery County, MD
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Montgomery County, MD
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Montgomery County, MD
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Montgomery County, MD
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Montgomery County, MD
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Montgomery County, MD
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