Swimming Pools

The Environmental Public Health Division inspects, permits, and investigates complaints associated with public swimming pools, spas, and bathing places. Inspections are conducted twice a year to assess:

1. Pool Cleanliness and Safety Measures
2. Proof of contract with Pool Service Technician or proof of Pool Operator Training
3. Pool Maintenance Records
4. Location and condition of bathroom facilities

Pools and bathing areas, including those in apartment complexes and condominiums, are regulated by the health department. This regulation does not include the many private swimming pools in our community.

Florida Swimming Lesson Voucher Program 

The Florida Department of Health is creating a network of swimming lesson instructors throughout the state who will participate in the Florida Swimming Lesson Voucher Program. Swim instructors who wish to participate must meet and provide proof of the following criteria:

• Certified by the American Red Cross, Y.M.C.A., or other nationally recognized aquatic training programs, approved by Florida Department of Health
• Current certification in swimming instruction
• Current certification in administering first aid
• Current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• If providing adaptable swim lessons, the curricula must be certified by the Dan Marino Foundation, Inc.

If you are interested in registering as a vendor, please visit WaterSmartFL.com and complete the registration form. Each registration will be reviewed, and applicants will be notified upon approval. Once approved, the business name and contact information will be included on a swim lesson provider list that will be shared online and with families seeking to obtain lessons.

Public Pool Construction

Contractors must submit an application and engineered plans for review by the local building department prior to construction of all new public swimming pools and spas. After construction, the pool must be inspected for compliance prior to opening. An annual permit is issued when approval is granted.

All pools and bathing facilities are inspected at least twice a year to ensure:

• Proper disinfection of the water
• Chemical balance of the pool water
• Filtration equipment is being properly maintained
• Safety equipment is maintained on site

Operating Permits

If you wish to open a public swimming pool, you will need an initial operating permit. An Operating Permit is issued after:

1. A Swimming Pool Operating Permit application is submitted to the Department of Health
2. The jurisdictional Local Building Department has reviewed and approved plans AND inspected the pool construct prior to the inspection of the pool
3. All persons employed to service the pool have proof of the Public Pool Service Technician Certification 

Bill Pay

Environmental Health bills and fees can be paid in person, by mail, or online by visiting MyFloridaEHPermit.com. For additional guidance, please review our Payment Methods form.