In Georgia, public swimming pools, spas, and recreational water parks are governed by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) under Chapter 511-3-5. As of the 2026 pool season, Georgia has reinforced its "imminent health hazard" protocols, meaning inspectors can close a facility immediately for critical safety failures.
The Georgia DPH enforces strict chemical and safety baselines to prevent waterborne illnesses like Cryptosporidium.
Disinfection & pH: * Free Chlorine: Minimum 1.0 ppm (2.0 ppm if using stabilized chlorine; 3.0 ppm for spas).
pH: Must be maintained between 7.2 and 7.8.
Water Clarity: The main drain or a standard white marker tile on the bottom of the deepest portion must be clearly visible. If visibility is obscured, the pool must be voluntarily closed or will be shut down by the health authority.
Bather Load: The maximum occupancy must be calculated based on the pool's surface area and clearly posted at the entrance.
Georgia is unique in its strictness regarding emergency telephones.
Hard-Wired Requirement: Most health districts (like Cobb & Douglas) require an operable, weatherproof, hard-wired conventional telephone line with direct 911 access.
Accessibility: The phone must be in a conspicuous location available to bathers at all times.
Signage: A permanent sign stating "EMERGENCY 911" must be posted at the telephone, along with the facility's physical address to assist first responders.
Georgia follows a mix of state code and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) for barriers.
Height: The barrier must stand at least 48 inches (4 feet) high, measured from the ground on the side facing away from the pool.
Gate Security: Gates must open outward (away from the pool), be self-closing, and self-latching.
Latch Height: The latch release must be at least 54 inches above the ground. If it is lower, it must be located on the pool side of the gate, at least 3 inches below the top, and requiring a reach-over or shielded access.
Climb Prevention: The maximum mesh size for chain-link fences is 1.75 inches unless slats are provided to prevent foot-holds.
Annual Operating Permits: Every public pool must obtain a valid permit from the local health authority. Seasonal pools (opening between April and October) must pass an opening inspection each year before bathers are allowed entry.
Change of Ownership: Permits are non-transferable. If a property changes hands, the new owner must apply for a new permit and undergo a "Change of Ownership" review.
Imminent Health Hazards: Inspectors will immediately suspend a permit for:
Disinfectant levels below minimum.
Missing or broken suction outlet (main drain) covers.
Fecal matter contamination.
Absence of a working emergency phone or required life-saving equipment (e.g., a 12-foot rescue pole and an 18-inch life ring).
Georgia DPH Rules for Swimming Pools (Chapter 511-3-5): The official state-level regulations and definitions.
2026 Pool Season Operational Guidance (Cobb & Douglas Health): A detailed "best-practices" guide updated for the current 2026 season.
Georgia Health Inspection Scores: The public portal where you can look up the most recent inspection report for any public pool in Georgia.
Coastal Health District - Pool Operator Resources: Helpful forms for daily logs and hydraulic analysis worksheets.
Pro-Tip for 2026: Georgia has clarified that Service Animals are permitted on the pool deck but are strictly prohibited from entering the water. Ensure your facility signage reflects this to stay compliant with both health codes and the ADA.
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