DHSS 'Governing Lodging Establishments' manual, swimming pools/spas section (lodging establishments). Enforced by Dept. of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Bureau of Environmental Health Services. Checked on the primary source; the state record was last reviewed 2026-11-12.
New or majorly renovated pools need engineer design to a national pool code; barrier at least 4 ft with self-closing, self-latching gates; chlorine at least 1.0 ppm and pH 7.2-7.8; daily water records; lifeguard needed for pools of 2,000 sq ft or more. The page gives no rule number.
Source: primary document
Statewide layer. County and city amendments sit on top; confirm the local office for the address.
DHSS swimming pools/spas manual page re-read Oct 19, 2026: no effective date, amendment or pending change listed
The federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (drain covers and anti-entrapment) applies to every public pool alongside the state rule below.
These apply when the building has the equipment or fits the type named. The frequency is the standard one; your local official can set a stricter one, so confirm it for the address.
DHSS 'Governing Lodging Establishments' manual, swimming pools/spas section (lodging establishments). New or majorly renovated pools need engineer design to a national pool code; barrier at least 4 ft with self-closing, self-latching gates; chlorine at least 1.0 ppm and pH 7.2-7.8; daily water records; lifeguard needed for pools of 2,000 sq ft or more. The page gives no rule number.
Dept. of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Bureau of Environmental Health Services.
Rulemaking pending. DHSS swimming pools/spas manual page re-read Oct 19, 2026: no effective date, amendment or pending change listed
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