In Michigan, public swimming pools are primarily regulated by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) under the Michigan Public Health Code (Act 368 of 1978) and the associated Administrative Rules (R 325.2111 to R 325.2199).
As of 2026, Michigan has intensified its focus on electrical safety and emergency communication, particularly given the state's severe freeze-thaw cycles that can affect bonding and structural integrity.
Michigan's EGLE is the primary licensing body, with local health departments (e.g., Oakland, Wayne, or Kent County) conducting the actual field inspections.
Water Chemistry (Rule 325.2194):
Free Chlorine: Minimum 1.0 ppm for pools; 3.0 ppm for spas.
pH: Must be strictly maintained between 7.2 and 7.8.
Cyanuric Acid: Maximum of 100 ppm (not permitted in indoor pools).
Water Clarity: A 6-inch black disc at the deepest part of the pool must be clearly visible from the deck.
Daily Operation Reports (Rule 325.2199): Operators must record chemistry and bather data daily. These reports must be submitted to the local health department within 10 days of the end of each month.
Emergency Response Plan: Every public pool owner must have a written plan covering rescues, equipment failure, and chemical spills available for review on-site.
Michigan code is very specific about preventing "climbable" surfaces, especially considering winter snow accumulation.
Height: Barriers must be at least 4 feet (48 inches) high.
Gate Standards: Gates must open outward, be self-closing, and self-latching.
Latch Placement: The latch must be at least 54 inches above the ground. If lower, it must be on the pool side, at least 3 inches below the top, and shielded.
The 4-Inch Rule: No gap in or under the fence may allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through.
Winter Safety Note: For 2026, inspectors are specifically checking that snow drifts or equipment (like heaters) do not create a "ramp" that allows children to climb over the 48-inch barrier.
Michigan requires a dedicated communication device at all public pools.
Location: Must be within 200 unobstructed feet of the pool.
Signage: A permanent sign must be posted at the phone showing:
The phone numbers for emergency response agencies (911).
The name and physical address of the swimming pool.
Cellular Acceptance: As of 2026, EGLE widely accepts dedicated cellular pool phones as a reliable alternative to traditional copper landlines, provided they are monitored and have backup power.
NEC 2023: Michigan follows the 2023 National Electrical Code. All receptacles within 20 feet of the water must be GFCI protected, and all pump motors require GFCI.
Bonding: Solid copper conductors (minimum #8 AWG) must bond all metal parts within 5 feet of the water. Aluminum is strictly prohibited for bonding due to corrosion.
Anti-Entrapment: All pools must have VGBA-compliant (Virginia Graeme Baker Act) dome or raised drain covers. Dual main drains must be at least 3 feet apart.
Michigan Public Swimming Pool Rules (EGLE): The primary portal for state rules, construction permits, and operational guidance.
Michigan Admin Code R 325.2111–325.2199: The full, searchable text of Michigan's public pool regulations.
EGLE Monthly Operation Report Form (PDF): The official template for the daily records that must be submitted monthly.
Michigan LARA Licensed Contractors: Use this to verify that your pool electrician or contractor is properly licensed by the state.
Note for 2026: Michigan has strict Wastewater Discharge rules. You must dechlorinate pool water to <0.1 ppm before discharging it to the ground or storm system. If you are in a "Combined Sewer" area, you may be required to coordinate drainage times with your local DPW to prevent system overloads.
5170A Timberlea Blvd.