Public Pools & Spas
Our Specialists inspect public pools and spas and investigate complaints regarding these facilities. If you would like to file a complaint with our office, please use our online form. If you would like more information on a particular facility that we inspect, please contact us.
If you are planning on opening or remodeling a Public Recreational Water Facility (pool, spa, spray park) please see our Permits, Forms and Fees page for required forms and useful information.
Virginia Graeme Baker Act
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Safety Act (VGBA) requires that main drain covers and pool return line covers meet certain standards for preventing underwater entrapment or evisceration due to suction. Access the following resources for more information:
- US Consumer Product Safety Commission Approved Drain Covers - This list is provided as a resource, not a recommendation of any type
- US Consumer Product Safety Commission Website
- VGBA Safety Vacuum Release and Main Drain Cover Replacement Certification (PDF) - This form must be submitted to Environmental Health to verify compliance of modifications pursuant to the VGBA
Recreational Water Illness & Injury Prevention Week
The week prior to Memorial Day annually marks Recreational Water Illness and Injury (RWII) Prevention Week. This seasonal event is traditionally the start of the summer swim season. Following are several resources for the awareness of recreational water illnesses and healthy swimming practices:
- 12 Steps for Prevention of Recreational Water Illnesses (For Pool Staff) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Before You Go to the Beach Brochure (PDF) Environmental Protection Agency
- Fact Sheets on Healthy Swimming and Recreational Water Topics
- Healthy Swimming Brochure from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in English (PDF) and Espanol (PDF)