Pools & Spas

All public swimming pools, spas and water attractions must be licensed and pass regular health inspections. This applies to all public pools, spas, wading pools, swim beaches and similar water recreation sites. Inspection reports can be viewed online at Oregon State Website.

You must obtain a plan review and license before:

  • Building a new public pool or spa
  • Remodeling a public pool or spa

You must also contact us prior to changing any pump, filter, heater or disinfection device.

Facilities are considered public if they are:

  • Associated with more than 4 housing units (including apartments, condo associations and neighborhood associations)
  • Private clubs
  • Fitness clubs
  • Hotels
  • Motels
  • Schools
  • Commercial concerns or parks
  • Recreation departments

Types of public pool facilities include:

  • General use - any member of the general public can pay at the door.
  • Limited use - membership, or member guest status, is required for use.

Requirements

Oregon Pools and Spas Rules

All public swimming pools are required to provide entrapment protection according to the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. For more information, visit the PoolSafely website.

Get a License

If you are building or remodeling a pool or spa:

You must obtain a plan review before beginning construction. Submit to Oregon Health Authority Public Pools and Tourist Facilities Program:

Once your plan has been approved by the Oregon Health Authority, you may begin construction. After the work has been completed, submit a license application (PDF), with appropriate fee (PDF), and call us to schedule a pre-inspection. You will receive your license after the facility passes the final inspection.

Renewals

Licenses are good for one calendar year. You may also get a seasonal license that is good for 6 consecutive months. Renew your license by paying the license fee by December 31 of each year.