Swimming Pool Program
The Hamilton County Health Department water program consists of permitting and inspecting of all public and semi-public swimming pools and spas. Hamilton County currently permits and inspects over 400 pools annually. Pools are permitted as either seasonal operation (May-September) or year round operations. Applications are issued approximately 6 weeks prior to expiration of the facilities permit. The Hamilton County Health Department pool/spa inspections follow the requirements of the Indiana State Department of Health 2010 Swimming Pool Rule 410 IAC 6-2.1.
Inspections are based on a variety of pool operations such general pool conditions, bathhouse, bather load, operating and safety equipment, water quality levels and required weekly water sampling requirements.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Swimming Web Page - This website provides information on recreational water illnesses (RWIs) and what the public, health professionals and pool facilities can do to prevent their transmission. Also available on their web page:
Program Inspections
Inspections are based on a variety of pool operations such general pool conditions, bathhouse, bather load, operating and safety equipment, water quality levels and required weekly water sampling requirements.
- Pools are required to keep on site a record of all pool maintenance completed.
- A Certified Pool Operator on staff is recommended for pools in Hamilton County..
- Bacteriological samples must be submitted weekly during operation periods, failure to meet disinfection or sampling requirements is reason for immediate closure of an unsafe pool.
State Resources
- Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ about Public and Semi-Public Pools.
- 410 IAC 6-2.1 - The Public and Semi-Public Pools Rule.
- ISDH Guidelines (PDF) have been issued for interactive water fountains ,also known as "spray grounds," "wet decks," "splash pads," "spray pads," or "spray parks".
- 675 IAC 20 (PDF) - The Fire Prevention And Building Safety Commission Swimming Pool Construction Code.
- Pool safety & operational forms can be found on the Indiana State Department of Health website.
Pool & Spa Safety
- Safety Drain Covers - Each swimming pool or spa drain cover manufactured, distributed, or entered into commerce in the United States shall conform to the American National Standard ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 - 2007 Suction Fittings for Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Compliance with this Standard will be enforced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission as a consumer product safety rule.
Center for Disease Control Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Swimming Web Page - This website provides information on recreational water illnesses (RWIs) and what the public, health professionals and pool facilities can do to prevent their transmission. Also available on their web page: