Lakes, Pools, and Spas

When You Swim, Swim Healthy!

Pools and Spas:

• The Columbia Health Department inspects approximately 150 swimming pools or spas
• Facilities that fall under Health Department jurisdiction include public, commercial, hotel/motel and apartment complex pools
• Each pool or spa must be permitted annually
• After the unit has been permitted, it is inspected monthly
• Permits may be suspended if minimum standards are not met
• The pools and spas are inspected for structure integrity, disinfectant levels, pH level, warning signs and presence of safety equipment
• The facilities are checked for cleanliness and maintenance of the grounds, locker rooms and fencing
• Swimming Pool Code
• Swimming Pool Guide
• Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act
• Virginia Graeme Baker Compliance Brochure
• Swimming Pool Engineering Summary
• ADA - Accessible Swimming Pools and Spas

Lakes:

• Lakes are sampled monthly for E. coli
• A lake must have a reading below 126 colonies of E. coli per 100 milliliters or they are resampled
• If three consecutive samples are above the recommended level, the manager is notified of the problem
• View results of water analysis
• These short videos show how we can all help keep our lakes and streams clean:
  • You Wouldn't Swim in It!
  • Pet Waste 911: Get the Scoop on Pet Poop

Pool and Water Safety Tips:

1. Never swim alone.
2. Keep all gates locked or have a cover secured over the pool, when closed.
3. No horseplay or running.
4. Lifesaving equipment are not toys. Keep these items in their respective places on the deck.
5. No food or drink in the pool and keep glass containers out of the pool area.
6. No diving in shallow areas.

Return to the Environmental Health Division Homepage or return to the Columbia/Boone County Health Department Homepage