Public Pools

Overview

Deschutes County's Environmental Health Specialists inspect over 250 public pools and spas in the County bi-annually. These inspections emphasize safety and disease prevention because public pools and spas have the potential to spread waterborne disease for swimmers. During pool and spa inspections a County Registered Environmental Health Specialist will inspect the pool or spa water chemistry to ensure that a minimum amount of disinfecting agent is in the water, the filtration system is operating correctly and that all life saving and safety equipment is in place.

If you are interested in establishing a pool, spa, or wading pool in Deschutes County, you may want to obtain additional information about the County's Pool and Spa Plan Review process.

Public Pool and Spa Plan Review

If you are proposing a new pool or spa, complete the Pool/Spa Plan Review Application form and submit two copies of the pool plans along with the required fee for each pool or spa. Plan specifications (enclosures #1 (Plans 33-60-030) and #2 (Swimming Pool Equipment Specifications and Plans) ) must be complete, either in table form on the plans, or on separate sheets, before plans can be reviewed.

If you are making any remodeling changes to an existing pool/spa, an approved plan review is also required. All new pool/spas, all pools/spas not previously licensed, and pools/spas that have not been licensed for the previous 12 months, must comply with all the current rules regarding plumbing, construction and equipment.

Please note: This plan review is for public health purposes only. Other reviews, permits, etc. by other agencies or department are your responsibility. A list of agencies you may need to contact is printed at the end of this page.

Deschutes County's Environmental Health Specialists inspect over 250 public pools and spas in the County bi-annually. These inspections emphasize safety and disease prevention, as public pools and spas have the potential to spread waterborne diseases among swimmers. During pool and spa inspections the Environmental Health Specialist will inspect the pool/spa water chemistry to ensure that a minimum amount of disinfecting agent is in the water, the filtration system is operating correctly and that all life saving and safety equipment is in place.

You are also required to obtain an Environmental Health Pool/Spa Construction Permit. Two “Construction Inspections” are required: A plumbing inspection and a second pre-plaster construction inspection. Please contact this office to schedule the construction inspections.

The following requirements must be met prior to issuance of your annual operating license:

The license fee for each unit must be paid. That includes a Tourist Facility license if a motel/hotel is also opening to the public.
All permits, (building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and other permits that may be required), must pass final inspection and a Certificate of Occupancy must be issued.
The pool/spa may not be used until the license has been issued. Pool/spa licenses expire December 31 of the year issued.

Phase 2 Re-Opening Information

ALL FACILITIES: Oregon General Guidance for employers

Agencies You May Need to Contact

Deschutes County
Planning Division (541) 388-6575
Building Safety Division (building/plumbing/electrical) (541) 388-6575

City of Bend
Planning Department (541) 388-5580
Building Department (541) 388-5528
Sewer (541) 388-5527
Business License (541) 388-5580

City of Redmond
Planning Division (541) 923-7719
Building Division (541) 923-7721
Sewer & Water (541) 504-2000

City of Sisters
Business Office (541) 549-6022

ADA and Pool Lifts

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a wide-ranging civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. Enforcement of ADA laws are carried out by the Department of Justice (DOJ). Both public and private entities are required to provide "accessible means of entry for pools". Larger pools (greater than 300 linear feet) require at least two means of access and smaller pools (less than 300 linear feet) require at least one means of access.

Oregon Administrative Rules

The State of Oregon maintains operational and regulatory standards for pools and spas intended to protect the health and safety of the public.

Required Signage

Public pools are required to post signage in accordance with the State of Oregon's Public Pool and Tourist Facility Program Rules.

Safety and Illness

Swimming and other water-related activities are enjoyed by many people who utilize Central Oregon's lakes, rivers, pools, and spas each year. However, it is important to be aware of ways to prevent water-related adverse health events. Deschutes County provides information for the public and health professionals on a variety of subjects related to these concerns.