Public Bathing Information

All public bathing places in Allegheny County are required to have a permit from the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), including spaces such as:

  • Community pools
  • Apartment pools
  • Hotel/motel pools
  • Wave pools
  • Waterslides
  • Gym pools
  • School pools
  • Condominium pools
  • Recirculating spray pads
  • Health Club Pools

Inspections of Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, and Other Public Bathing Places

Every permitted bathing place is inspected once per year, unless a complaint is made. If a complaint is received about a permitted location, the location will be visited. Inspections of public bathing places include:

  • Chemical levels in the water
  • pH of the water
  • Proper record keeping for chemical and bacteriological testing
  • Current electrical inspection certificate
  • Lifeguard coverage and certifications
  • Proper safety equipment and first aid kit
  • General safety and health hazards (i.e. trip hazards)
  • Other general safety issues

Building or Opening A New Bathing Place

View the current 2026 Fee Schedule(PDF, 235KB) for Bathing Place plan review and permits. 

Please visit Permitting Information for Public Bathing Places for more information about building or opening a new bathing place.

File a Complaint About a Public Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Other Bathing Place

For concerns about the safety or condition of a public swimming pool or other bathing place in Allegheny County, please report a complaint by calling the Housing and Community Environment Program at 412-350-4046 or using the online Pool Complaint Form.

Back to top