Rockingham County Environmental Health locally enforces the North Carolina state rules (15NCAC 18A .2500) which govern the sanitation and operation of public swimming pools and spas.  The term "public swimming pool" means an artificial body of water used by the public for swimming, diving, wading, recreation, or therapy. The term includes municipal, school, hotel, motel, apartment, athletic clubs, and other pools and spas. 

PERMITS

All Seasonal Public Swimming Pools in Rockingham County must apply for their annual permits every year before opening each season.  Public Pools that are open year-round are required to apply for their annual permits every 12 months. Applications must be submitted along with the $145 permit fee before a permit will be issued. Environmental Health Specialists inspect each pool before issuing a permit to determine if minimum safety and construction standards have met as required by North Carolina state rules (15A NCAC 18A  .2500).

PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

The following items must be in compliance before a permit can be issued:

• water chemistry (pH, disinfection, alkalinity, calcium hardness and cyanuric acid)
• temperature
• construction standards such as fencing, deck, ladders, steps, lighting
• life saving equipment such as body hooks, ring buoys, emergency telephone
• warning signs on decks such as depth markings, no diving signs
• pool circulation system (pump & filters)
• suction hazards

INSPECTIONS

Public Swimming Pools are inspected at least once a year if seasonal or twice a year if open year-round. Pools may be inspected more frequently if necessary and permits can be suspended at any time for failure to meet minimum safety standards such as water quality and suction hazards.

COMPLAINTS

If you have concerns about the sanitation at a facility, speak with management first.  If you still have concerns, feel free to contact our office at (336)342-8180 or fill out the on line complaint form.