In Saskatchewan, public swimming pools are governed by The Swimming Pool Regulations, 1999 under The Public Health Act, 1994. These are supplemented by the Saskatchewan Swimming Pool Design and Operational Standards, which were notably updated and consolidated in July 2012 (with subsequent errata).
This regulation provides the legal requirements for anyone operating a pool for public use, including municipal centers, hotels, and apartments.
Licensing: No person may operate a public pool without a valid license from the local health authority (Saskatchewan Health Authority). Licenses must be renewed annually.
Swimming Pool Safety Plan: A mandatory requirement for all licensees. This plan must outline staffing levels, emergency procedures, bather load limits, and staff qualifications.
Operator Training: The owner must ensure that a person who has completed a Pool Operator’s Training Course (approved by the local authority) is employed at the facility.
Reopening Notice: If a pool has been closed for 30 or more consecutive days, the owner must notify the local authority at least 14 days before reopening.
While the regulation provides the law, the Standards provide the technical "how-to."
Water Chemistry:
Chlorine: Minimum free chlorine residual of 2.0 mg/L for pools and 3.0 mg/L for whirlpools.
pH Levels: Must be maintained between 7.2 and 7.8.
Water Clarity: A 150 mm black disc on a white background must be clearly visible at the deepest part of the pool from a distance of 9 meters.
Lifeguard Ratios: The standards define specific supervision requirements based on the surface area of the pool and the number of bathers. Class A pools (public) require certified lifeguards, while Class B pools (semi-public) may require "attendants" or specific signage.
Electrical Safety: All electrical wiring and fixtures within 1.5 meters of the pool must comply with strict grounding regulations to prevent shock hazards.
Saskatchewan has a dedicated set of Whirlpool Design and Operational Standards.
Temperature: The water temperature must never exceed 40°C (104°F).
Timers: A mechanical timer switch (maximum 15 minutes) must be located out of reach of someone in the water to prevent prolonged heat exposure.
Emergency Stop: An emergency "stop" button for the recirculation and jet pumps must be clearly visible and accessible.
The Swimming Pool Regulations, 1999 (Full Text): The consolidated provincial legislation.
Environmental Health Legislation (Saskatchewan.ca): The primary hub for all aquatic standards, including the July 2012 Design and Operational Standards for pools and whirlpools.
Lifesaving Society Saskatchewan - National Standards: Provides guidance on how the LSS national standards interface with Saskatchewan law.
SHA Public Health Inspection Results: Where the public can view the most recent health inspection reports for public pools in the province.
Note for 2026: Saskatchewan has moved toward a more digital-first licensing approach. All safety plans and license renewals are now typically handled through the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) online portal for environmental health. Ensure your "Safety Plan" is reviewed and updated annually to reflect current staff certifications.
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