Public Swimming Pools

Ramsey County routinely inspects public swimming pools for a variety of factors, including:

• Water quality and temperature.
• Operations and daily log.
• Signage and safety equipment.
• Access restrictions.
• Structure repair and cleanliness.
• Locker rooms, showers and restrooms.

The Public Swimming Pool Ordinance (PDF) provides a full description of Ramsey County’s rules. To ensure your outdoor swimming pool meets county guidelines, use the Outdoor Pool Opening Checklist (PDF) before opening for the season.

A license is required to operate a public swimming pool in Ramsey County. To get a license, submit a license application (PDF) and fee.

Licensed public swimming pools must maintain a pool operations record log (PDF) and follow all Signage Requirements.

Where no life guard service is provided, place a warning sign in plain view that states "WARNING - NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY" with clearly legible letters at least four (4) inches in height. In addition, the sign should state "CHILDREN SHALL NOT USE POOL WITHOUT AN ADULT IN ATTENDANCE" in letters at least one (1) inch high.

• Life saving equipment must be plainly marked "FOR EMERGENCY USE ONLY".
• The bather load must be posted in a conspicuous location.
• When a telephone is provided, the emergency number must be posted.  If a telephone is not located within the pool enclosure, instructions as to the location of the nearest telephone and the emergency number must be posted.
• Suitable placards embodying the following regulations and instructions must be posted in clearly legible letters at least one-fourth (¼) inch high:
  • No person having an infectious or communicable disease shall work at or use the pool.
  • Persons with open blisters, cuts or exposed tissue are advised not to use the pool.
  • All persons using the swimming pool shall take a cleansing shower using warm water and soap and thoroughly rinsing off all soap suds before entering the pool enclosure.  A user leaving the pool to use the toilet must take a second cleansing shower before returning to the pool enclosure.  A person who exercises, applies lotion, or uses a sauna or steam room must shower before using the pool. 
  • Spitting, spouting of water and blowing the nose in the pool is prohibited.
  • No running or rough play, except supervised water sports, is permitted in the pool or in the pool areas.
  • Glassware or similar materials having a tendency to shatter upon impact are not allowed within the swimming pool enclosure area.
  • In addition to the required deck markings, a "NO DIVING" sign must be posted in pool enclosures that do not meet requirements for diving.
  • Pets are not permitted in the pool enclosure, shower or dressing rooms.
• In addition to the above signs, signage is required pertaining to the following items for all whirlpools and spa pools:
  • Pregnant women, small children, or persons with heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure should not enter the spa except under advice of a physician.
  • Avoid use while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Exposure may result in nausea, dizziness, or fainting.  Observe a reasonable time limit.