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PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS
Our Health Specialists conduct annual inspections of public swimming pools. These annual inspections focus on the following health and safety items:
- Does the pool have a certified operator who understands the basics of pool operation and has valid First Aid and CPR cards?
- Are lifeguards on duty when required by the regulations?
- Does the facility have appropriate lifesaving equipment and signage?
- Is the water clear enough to see the bottom in the deepest part of the pool?
- Is the bacterial quality acceptable?
- Is the disinfectant level adequate to make the water safe for swimming?
- Is the pool designed and operated with the safety of the swimmer in mind?
- Are your operational records adequate to protect you in the court of law?
Swimming Pool Regulations, Forms and Fees
Swimming Pool Permit Application
Swimming Pool Construction Certification & Plan Submittal
IDHW – Rules Governing Construction and Operation of Swimming Pools in Idaho
Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Act
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Act specifies that public swimming pools, wading pools, spas, and hot tubs must meet compliant drain cover installation requirements. For questions, contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-301-504-7908 or info@cpsc.gov, or CDH Environmental Health at 208-327-7499.
Swimming Pool Licensing: – Oct 2023
Pool Permit – $50
Pool Plan Review – $100
Pool Operator Courses
Self-Study Health Department Swimming Pool Course – Sep 2023
This self-study course is being provided for your convenience.
Study the course document thoroughly before scheduling an appointment with CDH to take the exam.
Call Environmental Health at 208-327-7499 to schedule a time to take the Swimming Pool Operator exam. There is a $68 fee to take the exam.
Pool and Hot Tub Alliance – Certified Pool Operator training courses
Other Services: – Oct 2023
Professional Services (consultation/training)
RESOURCES
Resources for Pool Operators
Resources for Pool Users
Drowning and Injury Prevention
Safe Kids – The first and only national organization dedicated solely to the prevention of unintentional childhood injury.
Infant Swimming Research – Dedicated to preventing infant drowning.
FAQS
There is no notification system at this time.
For current news releases that may include waterborne illness and healthy swimming recommendations, click here.
Central District Health inspects publicly owned pools and other water facilities every year, but privately owned pools and hot tubs in health clubs, hotels, or other places of lodging (trailer parks, apartments, condominiums or any other residential facility containing multiple dwellings) are out of our jurisdiction. The cleanliness and upkeep of privately owned pools is the responsibility of the owner.
If you need more information about water testing and pool maintenance, you can contact a pool maintenance and supply company. The health department offers a Pool Operators Competency certification course on video that can be viewed at our office for a small fee. For more information, contact Environmental Health.
CONTACT
Need help or have questions? Connect with experts online through our contact form or by phone at the Central District Health offices in Ada, Boise, Elmore and Valley counties.
Environmental Health
208-375-5211
Ada & Boise Counties 208-375-5211
Elmore County 208-587-4407
Valley County 208-634-7194
Contacts by County
Ada County
Boise, Eagle, Garden City, Hidden Springs, Kuna, Meridian, Star
Ada/Boise County: 208-327-7499
CDH Boise Office: 208-375-5211
Boise County
Banks, Crouch, Garden Valley, Horseshoe Bend, Idaho City, Lowman, Placerville
Office: 208-327-8532
Cell: 208-869-3416
Elmore County
Atlanta, Featherville, Glens Ferry, Hammett, Mountain Home, Pine
Elmore County: 208-580 6004
CDH Mountain Home: 208-587-4407
Valley County
Cascade, Donnelly, Lake Fork, McCall, Smiths Ferry, Yellow Pine
Valley County contact(s):
208-321-2216
208-321-2247
CDH McCall Office: 208-634-7194