DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY  
DRINKING WATER AND RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION DIVISION  
PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS  
(By authority conferred on the department of environmental quality by sections  
2226, 2233, and 12522 of 1978 PA 368, MCL 333.2226, 333.2233, and 333.12522)  
PART 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS  
R 325.2111 Definitions.  
Rule 1. As used in these rules:  
(a) "Code" means 1978 PA 368, MCL 333.1101 et seq.  
(b) "Department" means the department of environmental quality.  
(c) "Diving pool" means a swimming pool that is deep enough throughout for  
diving as required by R 325.2133.  
(d) "Modification" means any alteration to a swimming pool that results in a change  
from previously approved construction.  
(e) "Poolside slide" means a short slide structure which is more than 4 feet in  
height, which is not regulated under R 408.814, which is located near the edge of a  
swimming pool, and which is used by swimmers to slide by gravity into a pool.  
(f) "River ride pool" means a swimming pool that is designed to convey means a  
swimming pool that is designed to convey swimmers with or without flotation devices  
around a closed loop channel using an artificially created current.  
(g) "Spa pool" means a swimming pool which is designed for use by more than 2  
people at one time and which is not necessarily intended for swimming. A spa pool will  
typically have seating, agitation of the water, and water temperatures different than  
what is normal in pools for swimming.  
(h) "Special purpose pool" means a swimming pool that has design features which  
are not specifically covered in Part 2 of these rules.  
(i) "Swimming pool" or "pool" means a public swimming pool as defined in  
section 12521 of the code. The following are examples of swimming pools:  
(i) Cold plunge pools.  
(ii) Diving pools.  
(iii) Hot tubs.  
(iv) Scuba diving pools.  
(v) Spa pools.  
(vi) Training tanks wading pools.  
(vii) Water slide pools.  
(viii) Wave pools.  
(ix) Other special purpose pools.  
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(j) "Wading pool" means a swimming pool that is shallow enough throughout for  
wading.  
(k) "Water slide pool" means a swimming pool that includes 1 or more flumes  
in which bathers are transported by moving water to a landing area and which is used  
only to exit the water slide.  
(l) "Wave pool" means a swimming pool that is equipped to generate waves.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2113 Plans and specifications; construction permit application.  
Rule 3. (1) Plans and specifications submitted for a construction permit for a new  
swimming pool or modification of an existing swimming pool shall meet all of the  
following requirements:  
(a) Be prepared by, and bear the seal of, a professional engineer or architect  
licensed in this state if a new swimming pool and related facilities or a  
modification costs $15,000.00 or more. A person shall obtain a construction permit  
under section 12525 of the code regardless of the project cost.  
(b) Be submitted in triplicate to the department and be accompanied by  
completed construction permit application forms as prescribed and provided by the  
department.  
(c) Be accompanied by the fee prescribed by the code payable to: "State of  
Michigan."  
(2) Plans and specifications submitted for a construction permit for a new  
swimming pool shall meet both of the following requirements:  
(a) Include a plot plan showing all of the following:  
(i) Plan north or true north.  
(ii) Property boundaries and location description.  
(iii) Adjacent streets.  
(iv) Pertinent buildings on the site.  
(v) Pertinent site grades, including floodplain contour, if applicable.  
(vi) Utility lines.  
(b) Show, in detail, the swimming pool and related facilities areas, including all  
of the following:  
(i) The swimming pool enclosure and enclosure entrances.  
(ii) The enclosure design, door or gate designs, and entrance hardware.  
(iii) The walkway and deck materials, finishes, and slopes.  
(iv) The swimming pool tank and related facilities.  
(v) The swimming pool water treatment and recirculation equipment and piping.  
(vi) Dressing rooms, locker rooms, shower rooms and toilet rooms.  
(vii) Storage rooms.  
(viii) Offices.  
(ix) Mechanical equipment rooms.  
(x) The source of, and basis of design for, the water supply.  
(xi) Wastewater disposal system and the basis of design, including stormwater  
discharges.  
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(3) Plans and specifications submitted for a construction permit for modification  
of an existing swimming pool shall show both the proposed modifications and the  
pertinent existing facilities.  
(4) If plans and specifications are submitted to the department, then an applicant  
shall concurrently submit 1 set of plans and specifications to the appropriate local health  
department.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2113a Compliance with state or local code or requirement.  
Rule 3a. Compliance with these rules does not relieve a pool owner from  
complying with a state or local code or requirement that is not in conflict with these  
rules.  
History: 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2114 Design and construction variances.  
Rule 4. (1) The department may grant a variance from part 2 of these rules if the  
department determines that the variance will not affect the safe and healthful operation  
of the swimming pool and that strict compliance will cause unusual practical  
difficulties and hardships or will conflict with a special purpose intended for the pool.  
(2) A person who files a request for a variance from these rules shall do so in  
writing. The request shall state the specific reasons for the variance and shall include  
adequate proof that an item, material, feature, or method will perform the intended  
function so as to produce a safe and healthful swimming pool.  
(3) The department shall review the variance request and take either of the  
following actions:  
(a) Grant the variance in writing, including any specific terms, conditions,  
and limitations.  
(b) Deny the variance in writing and state the specific reasons for denial.  
(4) A swimming pool which is not in compliance with the specific provisions  
of these rules on their effective date, but which is in compliance with the rules in effect  
when the pool was installed and which is in good repair, is exempt from the provisions  
of these rules that require major structural or mechanical changes until pertinent  
modifications are made. If a swimming pool is modified, the pool owner shall bring the  
portion modified into compliance with applicable provisions of these rules, unless a  
variance is granted by the department.  
(5) This rule does not preclude the department from requiring changes where  
necessary to correct a threat to public health or an unsafe condition associated with a  
swimming pool. The pool owner shall establish a schedule of compliance for any  
required changes that is acceptable to the department or local health department.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
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R 325.2115 Operation permit application.  
Rule 5. (1) An applicant for an operation permit shall submit an application to  
the department on the forms prescribed and provided by the department.  
(2) An applicant shall submit the fee prescribed by section 12527a of the code  
together with the application. An applicant shall make payment payable to: "State of  
Michigan."  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2116  
order.  
Violation of code or rules; notice of noncompliance; stop-work  
Rule 6. (1) If a representative of the department or of a local health department  
inspects a swimming pool and finds a violation of the code or these rules, then the  
department or local health department representative shall issue a written notice of  
noncompliance to the owner or the owner's representative that specifies the corrective  
action to be taken and shall allow an appropriate time period for correction.  
(2) If construction is being performed contrary to the code or these rules, then  
the department or local health department representative may issue a written stop-  
work order. If a stop-work order is issued, the construction shall stop, except for  
work that is necessary to correct an unsafe condition.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2117 Closing of swimming pools; reasons.  
Rule 7. (1) A representative of the department or of a local health department  
may order the owner or operator of a swimming pool to close the pool and prohibit any  
person from using it, until correction, for any of the following reasons:  
(a) A condition of the swimming pool equipment, structure, area, or enclosure  
that jeopardizes the health or safety of the persons using or operating the pool.  
(b) The lack of properly functioning equipment or proper material for  
recirculating, treating, or testing the swimming pool water.  
(c) The lack of supervisory personnel, as required by R 325.2197, or lifeguards,  
as required by R 325.2198.  
(d) The presence of a pollutant or of a hazardous object or substance in the  
swimming pool.  
(e) Failure to meet a water quality standard prescribed by R 325.2194 or R  
325.2195.  
(f) Failure to operate and maintain the swimming pool as prescribed by R  
325.2191 to R 325.2199.  
(g) Failure to comply with the terms and provisions of an order or schedule of  
compliance.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
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R 325.2118 Closing of swimming pools; procedure.  
Rule 8. (1) The department or local health department shall issue an order under R  
325.2117 in writing and shall ensure that the order complies with all of the following  
provisions:  
(a) States that the pool shall close immediately.  
(b) Specifies the corrective action necessary to bring the pool back into  
compliance.  
(c) Is served upon the owner, operator, owner's representative, or person in charge  
of the swimming pool. The person on whom the order is served shall close the  
swimming pool immediately and shall prohibit any person from using it. The order may  
require the owner or operator or owner's representative to post 1 or more signs to inform  
any person that the swimming pool is closed until further notice.  
(2) After the specified corrective action has been taken, the owner or operator or  
owner's representative shall notify the agency issuing the closing order.  
(3) If upon reinspection the corrective action has not been taken, then the owner  
or operator shall keep the swimming pool closed and out of use until corrective action  
has been taken and the swimming pool has been reinspected and approved.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2118a Reopening inspections.  
Rule 8a. (1) Before the reopening of a swimming pool for seasonal use or for use  
after the expiration of an operation permit, an owner or operator shall prepare the  
swimming pool facilities for use according to all of the following provisions:  
(a) All violations of the code or these rules shall be corrected.  
(b) The swimming pool water shall meet the water quality standards prescribed  
by R 325.2194.  
(c) The owner or operator shall notify the department or local health department  
when the swimming pool is ready for use.  
(2) A representative of the department or local health department may inspect  
the facilities before authorizing seasonal use of a swimming pool.  
(3) A representative of the department or local health department shall inspect the  
facilities before authorizing the use of a pool after the expiration of an operation  
permit.  
(4) If a reopening inspection reveals a condition listed in R 325.2117, then a  
representative of the department or a local health department may order the owner or  
operator of the swimming pool to prohibit any individual from using the pool until  
adequate corrections are made.  
History: 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2118b Swimming pools not in use.  
Rule 8b. The owner of a swimming pool which is not in use or for which an  
operation permit is not in effect shall maintain the pool in a condition that prevents its  
creating a hazard to health or safety.  
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History: 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2119 Rescission.  
Rule 9. The rules entitled "Construction and Alteration of Public Swimming  
Pools," being R 325.391 to R 325.395 of the Michigan Administrative Code and  
appearing on page 2254 of the 1954 volume of the Code, and the rules entitled  
"Operation and Use of Public Swimming Pools," being R 325.401 to R 325.406 of the  
Michigan Administrative Code and appearing on pages 2254 and 2255 of the 1954  
volume of the Code are rescinded.  
History: 1979 AC.  
PART 2. CONSTRUCTION  
R 325.2121 Sites.  
Rule 21. The site for a swimming pool shall meet all of the following  
requirements:  
(a) Have pertinent public utilities available or have an on-site water supply and  
on-site sewage disposal system approved by the department or local health department.  
(b) Not be detrimental to safe access to the swimming pool or to the safe and  
healthful use of the swimming pool.  
(c) Be accessible by vehicles.  
(d) Have drainage that is adequate to prevent flooding, damage, and a nuisance.  
(e) Not be detrimental to the proper operation and maintenance of the swimming  
pool.  
(f) Avoid pollution of the swimming pool.  
(g) Allow for the swimming pool to be safely emptied when necessary.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2122 Construction shapes, materials, surfaces, and loads.  
Rule 22. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the pool and  
appurtenances are shaped and arranged so that the maintenance of safe and sanitary  
conditions and the recirculation of the water are not impaired. Nothing shall extend into  
or above a swimming pool tank so as to create a safety hazard.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pool and appurtenances are  
constructed of materials that are inert, nontoxic to humans, impervious, durable, and  
strong enough to withstand structural stresses.  
(3) A pool owner shall ensure that a finished surface of a swimming pool wall or  
floor does not have sharp edges, open cracks, or open joints and is slip-resistant, easily  
cleanable, nonabsorbent, and light-colored, except that a dark marking may be inserted  
against a light background.  
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(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pool tank is designed and  
constructed to withstand all anticipated loadings for both full and empty conditions. If  
a swimming pool tank is subject to external hydrostatic pressure, then the pool owner  
shall provide means to relieve the pressure.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2123 Walls, floors, ledges, and underwater seating.  
Rule 23. (1) Where the water depth is 6 feet or less, a swimming pool owner  
shall ensure that a swimming pool wall meets 1 of the following provisions:  
(a) Is vertical.  
(b) Slopes uniformly down to the point of curvature at not more than 1 horizontal  
in 5 vertical.  
(c) Falls entirely within a plane sloped 1 horizontal in 5 vertical from the waterline  
down to the point of curvature where the wall cannot slope uniformly due to the  
necessary structural support of the upper wall.  
(2) Where the water depth is more than 6 feet, a swimming pool owner shall ensure  
that a pool wall meets 1 of the following requirements:  
(a) Is vertical.  
(b) Is vertical to a water depth of not less than 64 inches and then curves to the  
floor with a radius of not more than the difference between the floor depth at that point  
and the depth at the point of curvature.  
(c) Is vertical to a water depth of not less than 64 inches and then slopes down  
to the floor at 1 horizontal in 2 vertical or steeper.  
(d) Is vertical to a water depth of not less than 68 inches and then slopes down  
to the floor at 1 vertical in 2 horizontal or less steep for a horizontal distance of not  
more than 6 feet from the pool wall. Add 1 inch to the vertical wall water depth for  
each additional 2 inches of total water depth deeper than 6 feet.  
(e) Slopes uniformly down to a water depth of not less than 6 feet at not more than  
1 horizontal in 5 vertical.  
(f) Falls entirely within a plane sloped 1 horizontal in 5 vertical from the waterline  
down to a water depth of not less than 6 feet where the wall cannot slope uniformly due  
to the necessary structural support of the upper wall.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the junction between a pool wall  
and the floor is coved with a radius according to the following requirements, as  
applicable:  
(a) Not less than ½ of an inch.  
(b) Not more than 8 inches where the water depth is 6 feet or less.  
(c) Not more than 75 inches where the water depth is more than 6 feet.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the entire swimming pool floor slopes  
down toward the main outlets according to the following requirements:  
(a) Where the water depth is 4 feet or less, the swimming pool floor shall be sloped  
uniformly at not more than 1 vertical in 12 horizontal, where the water depth is 4 feet or  
less, except on the deeper side of a change of slope.  
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(b) Where the water depth is between 4 feet and 6 feet, the floor shall be sloped  
uniformly at not more than 1 vertical in 3 horizontal on the deeper side of a change of  
slope to a water depth of not more than 6 feet.  
(5) Where the water depth is less than 6 feet, a swimming pool owner shall plainly  
mark the pool bottom at a change of floor slope with a color contrasting from the  
background color to allow the change of slope to be clearly visible. A swimming  
pool owner shall also extend the marking vertically up each sidewall at the change of  
slope.  
(6) The department may approve other floor slopes for special purpose pools, for  
scuba diving pools, or for the transition from the side of a diving area to a more  
shallow area.  
(7) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a ledge does not protrude into a pool  
unless it is essential to support an upper wall. If a ledge is provided, then a  
swimming pool owner shall ensure that the ledge meets all of the following requirements:  
(a) Is not more than 4 inches in width.  
(b) Slopes downward from the wall.  
(c) Is designed to prevent its use as a walkway.  
(d) Is marked with a color contrasting from the background color to allow the ledge  
to be clearly visible.  
(8) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that underwater seating at a  
swimming pool other than a spa pool meets all of the following requirements:  
(a) Is located where the water depth is 4 feet or less.  
(b) Is located in a recessed area that provides for the safety of swimmers.  
(c) The front edge of the seating is plainly marked in a color contrasting from the  
background color to allow the seat to be clearly visible from in the pool and on the  
walkway near the seat.  
(d) The walkway adjacent to the underwater seating is marked in a manner that  
warns of the location of the submerged seat.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2124 Handholds.  
Rule 24. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool, other  
than a spa pool, wading pool, or a water slide pool, has a continuous handhold that is not  
more than 6 inches above the water surface.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a spa pool has handholds that are not  
more than 4 feet apart and not more than 6 inches above the water surface.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a water slide pool has a  
continuous handhold, except at the flume entry into the pool.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a handhold provides a positive,  
safe, and slip-resistant grip and allows persons using the swimming pool to easily hold  
onto the edge of the pool.  
History: 2001 AACS.  
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R 325.2125 Water supplies.  
Rule 25. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the water serving a  
swimming pool and all plumbing fixtures are obtained from a type I public water  
supply, if available. If a type I water supply is not available, then a swimming pool  
owner shall ensure that water is obtained from a supply that meets the requirements for  
type II public water supplies. The water supply types are classified in R 325.10502.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the supply of water is adequate  
for service to all plumbing fixtures and for furnishing the swimming pool with not less  
than 1 gallon per minute per 1,500 gallons of the swimming pool volume. A swimming  
pool owner shall ensure that water at a temperature of not less than 90 degrees nor more  
than 110 degrees Fahrenheit is supplied to each required shower and lavatory.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2126 Water supply backflow.  
Rule 26. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a potable water supply  
system that serves a swimming pool and all plumbing fixtures is protected against  
backflow. A swimming pool owner shall ensure that potable water which is introduced  
into the swimming pool or recirculation system is supplied through permanent piping  
and either of the following:  
(a) An acceptable air gap consisting of an unobstructed vertical distance through  
the atmosphere of not less than 2 diameters of the water supply pipe between the lowest  
free-flowing discharge of the water supply pipe and the overflow level of the receiving  
pipe, tank, or vessel.  
(b) An approved reduced pressure zone backflow preventer which is installed  
where it is readily accessible for inspection and maintenance, which is not subject to  
flooding, and which does not have a direct connection between the drain port and a  
wastewater system.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a water supply fill spout is located so  
that it is not a safety hazard.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2127 Wastewater disposal systems.  
Rule 27. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool has a  
wastewater disposal system that serves the entire swimming pool facility. A swimming  
pool owner shall ensure that the wastewater disposal system has sufficient capacity to  
prevent flooding during the swimming pool filter cleaning cycle and during draining  
of the swimming pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that wastewater from a swimming pool  
is discharged through permanent piping to a public sewerage system if it is available.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the disposal of wastewater from a  
swimming pool does not create a threat to public health or safety, a nuisance, or  
unlawful pollution of the waters of the state. A swimming pool owner maybe required to  
obtain a permit for the disposal of wastewater under 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.101 et seq.  
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(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool and its  
recirculation system is protected against backflow from a wastewater disposal system. A  
swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pipe from the swimming pool or its  
recirculation system to a sewer discharges through an air gap of not less than 2 pipe  
diameters, unless the department approves the elimination of the air gap.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the wastewater disposal system  
enables emptying of the swimming pool.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the sump for receiving pool  
wastewater is properly trapped.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2128 Enclosures.  
Rule 28. (1) A swimming pool owner shall completely enclose a swimming pool  
facility by a wall, fence, or other protective enclosure. A swimming pool owner shall  
ensure that the entire enclosure, including doors and gates, is not less than 4 feet high as  
measured on the outside, does not provide ready footing for climbing, and is designed  
to prevent passage through or under the enclosure. A swimming pool owner shall  
ensure that a sliding-type door is not installed as part of the protective enclosure.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the enclosure specified in subrule  
(1) of this rule has at least 1 entrance. A swimming pool owner shall ensure that  
each entrance has a door or gate equipped with a self-closer, a latch, and a lock. A  
swimming pool owner shall ensure that a sliding-type door is not installed as an  
entrance. A swimming pool owner shall ensure that an entrance for bathers leads to  
the shallowest area of the swimming pool.  
(3) A swimming pool owner may enclose 2 or more swimming pools within a  
single enclosure, except that an owner shall enclose a wading pool separately.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall provide a barrier between a permanent  
spectator area and an area used by bathers.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a balcony within 10 feet of or  
overhanging any portion of the swimming pool water surface is completely enclosed  
or is designed to prevent diving into the swimming pool.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that an active recreation area which is  
adjacent to a swimming pool and which is provided for the use of persons within the  
swimming pool enclosure is separated by a barrier.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2129 Walkways and decks; "walkway" and "deck" defined.  
Rule 29. (1) "Walkway" means the area around and immediately adjacent to the  
edge of a swimming pool. A swimming pool owner shall provide a continuous,  
unobstructed walkway as follows:  
(a) It shall be not less than 4 feet wide and extend out to any deck drainage if  
located beyond 4 feet from the edge of the pool.  
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(b) It shall extend completely around a swimming pool other than a spa pool,  
water slide pool, or river ride pool.  
(c) It shall be not more than 9 inches above the water surface, except at a water  
slide pool or a wave pool.  
(d) It shall be not less than 4 feet wide by not less than 10 feet long at a spa pool  
and be located at a means of egress from the spa pool.  
(e) It shall be not less than 4 feet wide at the side and behind a piece of diving or  
permanent deck equipment.  
(f) It shall be provided on at least 1 side of a river ride pool.  
(g) It shall be continuous for a water slide pool, except for the flume entry into the  
pool.  
(h) It shall be not less than 10 feet wide at the main means of egress from a water  
slide pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a walkway between 2 swimming  
pools is not less than 6 feet wide. A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a common  
wall between a swimming pool and a spa pool is not more than 18 inches thick, not  
more than 12 feet long in any 1 direction, not more than 24 feet long in total, and  
designed to prevent a person from walking on the wall.  
(3) "Deck" means the remaining area from the edge of the swimming pool  
walkway to the swimming pool enclosure.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall effectively seal a junction between a walkway  
or paved deck and a wall to allow for easy cleaning.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall effectively seal a joint between the swimming  
pool coping and the walkway with a flexible waterproof sealant.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall equip an opening in the walkway with a  
locking-type cover that is flush with the deck or walkway surface.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2129a Walkway and deck materials; drainage.  
Rule 29a. (1) A swimming pool owner shall pave the entire walkway around a  
swimming pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the walkway surface materials are  
durable, slip-resistant, easily cleanable, and nonabsorbent. Acceptable materials include  
any of the following:  
(a) Concrete.  
(b) Ceramic tile.  
(c) Quarry tile.  
(d) Other paving materials acceptable to the department.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the remaining deck area is  
constructed and maintained to prevent surface drainage, dirt, and other harmful  
material from being carried into the pool. Acceptable deck materials include any of the  
following:  
(a) Materials specified in subrule (2) of this rule.  
(b) Wood.  
(c) Grass.  
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(d) Shrubbery and other landscaping.  
(e) Other materials acceptable to the department.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the walkway and deck are  
effectively drained to prevent the accumulation of standing water.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a walkway slopes away from the  
swimming pool for not less than 4 feet.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a coping or other means is provided  
to prevent water flow from a walkway into the swimming pool.  
(7) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a deck drain discharges to waste  
only.  
(8) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that roof drainage is not routed onto a  
swimming pool walkway or deck.  
History: 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2131 Drinking fountains.  
Rule 31. (1) A swimming pool owner shall provide a drinking fountain at a  
swimming pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a drinking fountain is an angle jet-  
type fountain and is located where it is readily accessible to the bathers and is not a  
safety hazard.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that wastewater from a drinking  
fountain is routed to waste in accordance with R 408.30701 et seq.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a drinking fountain is not located in  
a toilet area or shower area.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2132 Water depths; depth markings; lifelines.  
Rule 32. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the following maximum  
water depths are complied with:  
(a) Not more than 5.25 feet in a swimming pool which is smaller than 800 square  
feet in water surface area and which has a shallow area for walking or standing.  
(b) Not more than 1.5 feet in a wading pool.  
(c) Not more than 4 feet in a spa pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall plainly mark the depth of water in a  
swimming pool on the walkway next to the swimming pool.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall provide depth markers as necessary to indicate  
the depth of water as follows:  
(a) At each side and at each end of the pool.  
(b) At the maximum and the minimum depths.  
(c) At a change in the floor slope between shallow and deeper areas.  
(d) At other critical points.  
(e) At intermediate points not more than 25 feet apart measured peripherally,  
except at a river ride pool.  
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(f) At each means of egress at a river ride pool.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a depth marker is in compliance  
with all of the following requirements:  
(a) Has legible numerals.  
(b) Is not less than 4 inches high.  
(c) Is a color that contrasts with the background.  
(d) Indicates the units of measure.  
(e) Indicates the water depth from the minimum operating water level to the  
bottom of the pool at that point.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall place the words "no diving" between the depth  
markers on the walkway where the water depth is less than 5 feet at a swimming pool. A  
swimming pool owner shall ensure that the words meet the requirements of subrule (4)  
of this rule.  
(6) A swimming pool owner may place "no diving" symbols that are not less than 4  
inches high on the walkway in place of the words "no diving" required by subrule (5) of  
this rule.  
(7) A swimming pool owner is not required to place depth markers at the zero  
depth end of a pool.  
(8) A swimming pool owner is not required to place "no diving" markers at a spa  
pool, wading pool, scuba diving pool, or at the zero depth end of a pool.  
(9) A swimming pool owner shall place a sign in a scuba diving pool enclosure  
which states that the pool is for scuba diving only.  
(10) A swimming pool owner shall provide a lifeline at a swimming pool, other  
than a water slide pool or a wave pool, at a change in floor slope where the water  
depth is less than 5 feet or at the 5-foot depth if the slope does not change.  
(11) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the lifeline has floats and anchors  
in both sidewalls near the water level.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2133 Diving areas and facilities; "plummet" defined.  
Rule 33. (1) A swimming pool owner shall not install a diving facility unless the  
department approves in writing before the installation.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a diving area conforms to table 1  
and figure 1 of this rule.  
(3) Table 1 and figure 1 read as follows:  
Table 1 Diving Areas  
Board height in  
meters  
0.5  
Meter  
1.0  
Meter  
3
.0  
Board height  
1
3
9'11  
16'0  
(feet)  
Board length  
(feet)  
10'0  
16'0"  
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Board width  
(feet)  
Letters below refer to  
Figure1  
1
1
1'8"  
Minimum dimensions in feet  
Distance from plummet back to pool wall  
Distance from plummet to pool wall at side  
Distance from plummet to adjacent plummet  
Distance from plummet to pool wall ahead  
Height from board to ceiling at plummet  
2
5
6'0"  
11'6"  
8'3"  
8
8
7
7
26'0"  
29'7  
16'0  
8
33'8"  
16'0"  
8'0"  
16'0"  
and distances F and G  
Clear overhead distance behind and each  
side of plummet  
8
Clear overhead distance ahead of plummet  
16'0"  
16'0  
11'0  
16'5  
10'9  
5
16'0"  
12'0"  
19'9"  
11'9"  
6'7"  
Depth of water at plummet  
8
Distance ahead of plummet to depth K  
Depth at distance J ahead of plummet  
Distance at each side of plummet to depth M  
12'0"  
8
8
8
Depth at distance L on each side of plummet  
M
10'9  
11'9"  
Maximum slope to reduce height E  
30  
30  
30  
Maximum floor slope to reduce depth ahead  
of  
K, to the sides of M, or back to pool  
wall behind H  
1
1
1
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(4) "Plummet" means a vertical line which passes through the end of, and which is  
at the center line of, a diving board or diving platform.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall install diving equipment in compliance with  
this rule and the equipment manufacturer's recommendations.  
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(6) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a diving board, platform, and  
appurtenances meet all of the following requirements:  
(a) Be constructed to ensure stability and safely carry the maximum anticipated  
loads.  
(b) Be constructed of corrosion-resistant, easily cleanable, nonabsorbent, and slip-  
resistant materials.  
(c) Have handholds on both sides of the ladder or stairway to a diving board or  
diving platform.  
(d) For a diving stand or platform 1.0 meter or higher above the water, have guard  
railings on both sides of the diving board which extend to a position above the edge  
of the water and which are equipped with intermediate rails. A diving stand or platform  
used exclusively for competitive purposes is exempt from this subdivision.  
(7) A swimming pool owner shall consider the safety of swimmers and divers in the  
location and orientation of diving facilities. A swimming pool owner shall locate all  
diving boards and diving platforms at a pool on the same wall.  
(8) For pools that have diving facilities which were constructed before the  
effective date of this rule and which do not comply with this rule, the department may  
approve the diving facilities for competitive purposes. For competitive purposes, a  
swimming pool owner shall ensure that the pool diving depths and facilities meet the  
requirements in effect on March 24, 1971 and shall operate the facilities in accordance  
with R 325.2198.  
(9) If a pool is not in compliance with the requirements of this rule, and if the  
department has issued a correction order to remedy an unsafe condition under R  
325.2114, then a swimming pool owner shall remove a diving facility or bring it into  
compliance with this rule.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2134 Ladders, stairways, and ramps.  
Rule 34. (1) A swimming pool owner shall equip a swimming pool with  
ladders, stairways, or similar means of egress in compliance with all of the following  
provisions:  
(a) Have at least 1 means of egress at each end of a pool, other than a wading  
pool, water slide pool, or a spa pool, that is less than 30 feet wide.  
(b) Have not less than 2 means of egress located at opposite sides and at each end  
of a pool, other than a wading pool or a water slide pool, that is 30 or more feet wide.  
(c) Have at least 1 means of egress for a water slide pool or a spa pool.  
(d) Have a means of egress consisting of a ladder, stairway, or ramp for a pool other  
than a water slide pool or a spa pool.  
(e) Have a means of egress consisting of a stairway or ramp for a water slide pool  
or a spa pool.  
(f) Have at least 1 ladder for each diving board in a diving area.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the distance from any point in a  
swimming pool to a means of egress is not more than 50 feet, except that a wave pool  
may have more than 50 feet to a means of egress where the water depth is less than 3.5  
feet.  
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(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool ladder is  
corrosion-resistant and sturdy and has slip-resistant treads, side rails extending over  
the deck, and not more than 6 inches of clearance to the swimming pool wall. A  
swimming pool owner shall ensure that a recessed ladder has stepholes which drain  
into the swimming pool and which are easily cleanable and has a grab rail at each side of  
the ladder.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a stairway leading into a  
swimming pool is in compliance with all of the following provisions:  
(a) Has slip-resistant treads.  
(b) Has uniform size treads that are not less than 12 inches deep and uniform  
size risers that are not more than 10.5 inches high for a swimming pool other than a spa  
pool.  
(c) Has uniform size treads that are not less than 11 inches deep and uniform size  
risers that are not more than 12 inches high for a spa pool.  
(d) Has the front edge of each step marked in a color that contrasts with the  
background.  
(e) Is located where the water depth is either not more than 4 feet or is in a diving  
area and is located where the stairway will not be a hazard to swimmers.  
(f) Has 1 sturdy handrail per 12 feet of the stairway width or fraction of 12 feet or in  
accordance with other applicable codes and is reachable for the length of the stairway.  
The stairway may have the top tread wider and the top or bottom riser shorter than the  
others.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a ramp leading into a swimming pool  
is in compliance with all of the following provisions:  
(a) The slope is not steeper than 1 in 12 from the horizontal.  
(b) Terminates where the water depth is 3.5 feet or less.  
(c) Is located where the ramp will not be a hazard to swimmers.  
(d) Is slip-resistant.  
(e) Has a sturdy handrail along each side of the ramp which is reachable for the  
length of the ramp.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a stairway or ramp for a water slide  
pool is wide enough to accommodate the expected usage and, preferably, as wide as the  
exit end of the pool.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2135 Starting platforms.  
Rule 35. (1) After the effective date of this rule, if starting platforms are provided  
at a swimming pool, then a swimming pool owner shall ensure that the platforms are in  
compliance with the following water depth and platform height requirements, as  
applicable:  
(a) For water depths less than 79 inches, starting platforms shall not be installed.  
(b) For water depths 79 inches and deeper across all swimming lanes, the front  
edge of the starting platforms shall be not higher than 30 inches above the water surface.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a starting platform meets all of the  
following requirements:  
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(a) Is installed where the minimum water depth is maintained for a distance  
from 2 feet to not less than 19 feet out from the edge of the pool across all swimming  
lanes.  
(b) Is installed with the front edge extending to the edge of the water.  
(c) Is easily removable without tools when located at a water depth of less than  
8.5 feet.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a starting platform that was installed  
before the effective date of this rule and has water depths less than 60 inches is brought  
into compliance with subrules (1) and (2) of this rule or is permanently removed.  
History: 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2136 Water circulation.  
Rule 36. (1) A swimming pool owner shall equip a swimming pool for  
continuous, uniform circulation of treated water within the swimming pool tank and  
for continuous removal, treatment, and reuse of the water.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the water recirculation and  
treatment system is adequate for recirculating and treating the entire volume of water as  
follows:  
(a) In 6 hours or less for a swimming pool.  
(b) In 1 hour or less for a wading pool.  
(c) In 1 hour or less for a spa pool.  
(d) In 2 hours or less for a river ride pool.  
(e) In 1 hour or less for a water slide pool.  
(f) In 4 hours or less for a wave pool.  
(g) In less time than specified in subdivisions (a) to (f) of this subrule if necessary  
to meet the hydraulic design requirements for the surface skimmer system required  
by R 325.2144.  
(h) In less time than specified in subdivisions (a) to (f) of this subrule if necessary  
to remedy water quality, clarity, or other operational problems.  
(3) The swimming pool owner shall ensure that the entire volume of a special  
purpose pool is recirculated and treated at a rate acceptable to the department.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2137 Swimming pool water piping.  
Rule 37. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that swimming pool water  
piping is all of the following:  
(a) Nontoxic material.  
(b) A potable water grade.  
(c) Durable.  
(d) Resistant to corrosion.  
(e) Rated to withstand operating pressures of not less than 160 pounds per square  
inch.  
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(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that plastic pipe is equivalent to either of  
the following types of piping, as determined by the department:  
(a) Piping certified for potable water by NSF International or other nationally  
recognized certifying agency.  
(b) Schedule 40 polyvinyl chloride or heavier piping.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that plastic piping is not used for the  
piping from 5 feet upstream to 5 feet downstream from a water heater, unless the  
heater manufacturer's written recommendations approve the use of shorter piping or a  
specific pipe product.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the piping is designed to carry the  
required quantities of water at velocities of not more than 5 feet per second in suction  
piping and 10 feet per second in pressure piping, unless greater velocities are  
warranted.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the piping meets all of the following  
requirements:  
(a) Is protected against erosion, corrosion, mechanical damage, and other  
deterioration.  
(b) Is provided with fittings necessary for disassembly of any part.  
(c) Is arranged to allow ready, safe, and proper operation and maintenance of the  
swimming pool facilities.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall mark exposed pool piping with labels and  
arrows showing the normal direction of water flow.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2138 Flow controls; rate-of-flow indicators.  
Rule 38. (1) A swimming pool owner shall provide a valve for regulating the rate  
of flow through a swimming pool in the recirculation pump discharge piping.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall provide a rate-of-flow indicator on the pump  
discharge piping before or after the filter.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a rate-of-flow indicator meets all of  
the following requirements:  
(a) Is the proper size and design for the pipe and system on which it is installed.  
(b) Has a durable scale that is graduated in gallons per minute.  
(c) Is sized to operate as close as practical to the midrange of the indicator at the  
design recirculation flow rate.  
(d) Is installed where it is readily accessible for reading and maintenance.  
(e) Is installed with straight pipe upstream and downstream from the indicator to  
any fitting or restriction in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2141 Inlets.  
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Rule 41. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool water inlet  
system has inlets adequate in design, number, and location to ensure uniform  
distribution of treated water throughout the swimming pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that an inlet meets all of the following  
requirements:  
(a) Is equipped for flow rate adjustment.  
(b) Does not extend from the swimming pool wall or floor so as to create a hazard.  
(c) Is not less than 12 inches below the water level or is not less than 6 inches below  
the water level and designed to direct the flow downward.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pool has the following number  
of inlets:  
(a) Not less than 2 inlets.  
(b) Not less than 1 inlet per 20 lineal feet of swimming pool periphery, except at a  
river ride pool.  
(c) More inlets than required in subdivision (a) or (b) of this subrule if necessary for  
the uniform circulation of water.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the location of inlets for a swimming  
pool other than a river ride pool or a water slide pool is as follows:  
(a) For a wall inlet system, inlets shall be spaced not more than 20 feet apart as  
measured along the swimming pool wall.  
(b) For a floor inlet system, inlets shall be uniformly spaced not more than 20 feet  
apart and there shall be an inlet not more than 15 feet from each wall.  
(c) Where water circulation might be impaired, there shall be at least 1 inlet  
located in each recessed stairwell, underwater seat, or other space.  
(5) A river ride pool or water slide pool owner shall provide a pool with 1 or more  
inlets adequate in number and location to provide and maintain flow rates and water  
quality in accordance with R 325.2194.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2142 Main and other outlets.  
Rule 42. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool has 2 or  
more main outlets for the recirculation system pump for continuous removal of water for  
treatment and for emptying the pool.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the main outlets for the  
recirculation system pump meet all of the following requirements:  
(a) Are designed and located to ensure the complete draining of the pool.  
(b) Are designed and located to prevent entrapment and to prevent the restriction  
of flow by the simultaneous covering of all outlets on the system by 1 person.  
(c) Do not extend from the swimming pool floor or wall so as to create a hazard.  
(d) Are covered with a grate which is not hazardous to bathers, which is secured in  
place, and which is removable only with tools.  
(e) Have an open area for each grate large enough to assure water entrance  
velocities of not more than 2 feet per second, with as close as practical to equal flow  
through each outlet grate.  
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(f) Have the total open area for all main outlet grates large enough to assure water  
entrance velocities of not more than 1 foot per second.  
(g) Are interconnected with unrestricted piping that does not contain valves.  
(3) If another pump or pumps are provided, then a swimming pool owner shall  
ensure that the same outlet system supplying water to the pumps complies with the  
requirements of subrules (2)(b), (c), (d), (e), (f), and (g) of this rule.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that all outlet openings meet both of the  
following requirements:  
(a) Are not less than 3 feet nor more than 20 feet from another outlet as measured  
center to center.  
(b) Are provided not more than 15 feet from a sidewall for a main outlet.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that all outlet discharge piping is valved in  
the equipment room as close as practical to the pump suction.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2143 Overflow systems.  
Rule 43. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool is  
equipped with an overflow system to remove floating material from the water surface.  
A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool that is not more than 2,400  
square feet in water surface area has either a perimeter overflow system or surface  
skimmers or that a swimming pool which is more than 2,400 square feet in water  
surface area has a perimeter overflow system.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a perimeter overflow system meets  
all of the following requirements:  
(a) Extends completely around the swimming pool, except for a spa pool, river  
ride pool, water slide pool, a special purpose pool, or a location where the design and  
construction of the perimeter overflow system must change due to construction  
limitations.  
(b) Has the overflow lip as level as practical, plus or minus 1/8 inch.  
(c) Has a minimum opening of 6 inches or has a covering adequate to prevent  
entrapment of any part of the bather's body.  
(d) Permits ready inspection, cleaning, and repair.  
(e) Is designed for removal of the water at a rate of not less than 100% of the  
design flow rate.  
(f) Provides for discharging the water for treatment and reuse.  
(g) Provides a handhold for bathers.  
(h) Effectively removes floating materials from the water surface.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a perimeter overflow system  
extends as follows:  
(a) Around a spa pool or a water slide pool in a manner acceptable to the  
department.  
(b) Around a river ride pool at major changes of direction acceptable to the  
department.  
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(c) Around a special purpose pool in locations acceptable to the department  
where the shape of the pool may cause practical difficulties in the construction of a  
continuous perimeter overflow system.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2143a Overflow system open tanks and surge capacity.  
Rule 43a. (1) A swimming pool owner shall equip a swimming pool equipped with  
a perimeter overflow system with an open tank for containing the free discharge of  
water from the perimeter overflow system for treatment and reuse.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that an open tank meets all of the  
following requirements:  
(a) Has a capacity from the design operating level of the surge tank to the tank  
overflow elevation of not less than 2 minutes of flow from the filtration pump.  
(b) Has an automatic means to supply potable water to the pool or to the open tank  
that is activated based on the water level in the pool or in the open tank.  
(c) Has tank overflow piping that meets both of the following requirements:  
(i) Is sufficiently lower than the perimeter overflow system lip to assure continuous  
flow at the design flow rate.  
(ii) Is designed to prevent flooding of the equipment room or other areas in case of  
mechanical failure.  
(d) Has a means to automatically regulate the main outlet system flow rate based on  
the variation of water level in the open tank or perimeter overflow system.  
(e) Has a means to completely drain the open tank when necessary.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pool which has a perimeter  
overflow system has surge capacity of not less than 1 gallon per square foot of pool  
water surface area. A swimming pool owner shall ensure that total surge capacity is the  
sum of the open tank capacity and either of the following if capacity is available:  
(a) Capacity in the perimeter overflow system.  
(b) Capacity in the pool of not more than 50% of the required surge capacity if  
the perimeter overflow system is equipped with surge weirs.  
History: 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2144 Surface skimmers and surge weirs.  
Rule 44. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool, other  
than a spa pool, which is equipped with surface skimmers or a perimeter overflow system  
that has surge weirs has at least 1 surface skimmer or surge weir for every 500 square  
feet of water surface area or fraction of 500 square feet. A swimming pool owner  
shall provide additional surface skimmers or surge weirs if necessary for effective  
skimming or to meet the surface skimmer hydraulic design requirements.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a spa pool has 1 surface skimmer  
for every 250 square feet of surface area or fraction of 250 square feet.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall not provide a spa pool, a river ride pool, or a  
wave pool equipped with a perimeter overflow system with surge weirs.  
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(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a surface skimmer or surge weir is  
in compliance with both of the following provisions:  
(a) Is designed to effectively remove floating material from the water surface.  
(b) Is located to ensure proper skimming of the entire water surface with minimum  
interference and minimum short-circuiting.  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a surface skimmer meets all of the  
following requirements:  
(a) Has an automatically adjustable weir.  
(b) Has an easily removable and cleanable strainer basket.  
(c) Has a flow rate control device.  
(d) If an equalizer pipe is provided, the pipe has a device that will remain tightly  
closed under normal operating conditions.  
(e) Is built into the swimming pool wall and does not create a safety hazard.  
(6) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool recirculation  
system is designed for a flow of 37.5 gallons per minute per surface skimmer with 80%  
of the flow (30 gallons per minute) to be directed through the skimmer and 20% of  
the flow (7.5 gallons per minute) to be directed through the main drain.  
(7) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a surface skimmer piping system  
is equipped with a means to adjust the flow through each skimmer either in each  
skimmer or in the equipment room as close as practical to the pump suction to provide  
for uniform surface skimming and to allow balancing of flow between the skimmer  
system and the main outlet system.  
(8) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a surge weir for a perimeter  
overflow system meets all of the following requirements:  
(a) Is designed to effectively skim the water surface.  
(b) Is designed for a minimum flow rate of 50 gallons per minute and for 20  
gallons per minute per lineal foot of weir.  
(c) Is designed to effectively close during periods of use when rim flow is  
necessary.  
(d) Is built into the perimeter overflow system and does not create a safety  
hazard.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2145 Recirculation pumps.  
Rule 45. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a recirculation system is  
equipped with a single pump that has a sufficient capacity for recirculating the  
swimming pool volume of water within the time period required in R 325.2136 and  
for providing flow adequate for cleaning the filters.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the pump and motor meet all of the  
following requirements:  
(a) Are capable of continuous operation.  
(b) Are self-priming if the pump or suction piping is above the swimming pool  
water level.  
(c) Are manufactured of materials suitable for continuous exposure to water and  
normal concentrations of pool treatment chemicals.  
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(d) Are securely mounted to prevent strain on the piping.  
(e) Are equipped with an emergency shutoff device.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall install a gauge to measure the pump  
discharge pressure.  
(4) If the water is pumped from the swimming pool to the filters, a swimming  
pool owner shall provide a strainer on the suction side of the pump and shall ensure that  
the strainer meets all of the following requirements:  
(a) Is corrosion-resistant, readily removable, and easily cleanable.  
(b) Is equipped with valves to permit removal of the strainer basket without  
water flowing through the chamber.  
(c) Is provided with a spare strainer basket .  
(5) A swimming pool owner shall not install a timer to control the operation of  
the recirculation pump.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2146 Water agitation and other pump systems.  
Rule 46. (1) If agitation of the water in a spa pool is provided or if other pump  
systems in a swimming pool are provided, then a pool owner shall ensure that the  
agitation or other water movement is accomplished with a pump separate from the water  
treatment and recirculation system pump.  
(2) A pool owner shall ensure that an electrical switch, timer, or emergency  
shutoff device to operate the agitation system pump is not reachable from the pool.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall equip a wave pool with not less than 2  
emergency wave shutoff devices and shall locate 1 device on each side of the pool at a  
fixed lifeguard station.  
(4) If an air induction system is provided, a pool owner shall ensure that the system  
meets both of the following requirements:  
(a) Is designed to prevent water backup that could cause electrical shock hazards.  
(b) Is designed so the air intake source does not permit the introduction of toxic  
fumes or other contaminants.  
History: 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2151 Filters.  
Rule 51. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a swimming pool water  
treatment system has 1 or more filters for clarifying the water. A swimming pool owner  
shall ensure that a filter meets all of the following requirements:  
(a) Is capable of producing acceptable water clarity.  
(b) Enables easy removal of the material filtered out.  
(c) Is convenient to operate and maintain.  
(d) Is installed with adequate clearance and facilities for ready and safe inspection,  
operation, maintenance, disassembly, and repair.  
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(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a filter system shall have sufficient  
filtration area to meet the required flow rate without exceeding the established  
maximum filtration rate demonstrated to produce acceptable water clarity.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2152 Sand-type filters.  
Rule 52. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a sand-type filter system is  
designed to operate at a maximum filtration rate of 20 gallons per minute per square foot  
of filter area and a backwash rate of 15 gallons per minute per square foot of filter area.  
The department may approve other flow rates based on test data or other  
performance data that demonstrate compliance with R 325.2151.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the backwash water is  
discharged to waste and that a means for viewing backwash water clarity is provided.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2153 Diatomaceous earth-type filters.  
Rule 53. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a diatomaceous earth-  
type filter system meets all of the following requirements, as applicable:  
(a) Is designed to operate at a maximum rate of 1.5 gallons per minute per square  
foot of filter area.  
(b) Is designed to operate at a maximum rate of 2 gallons per minute per square  
foot of filter area if body feed equipment is provided that is capable of applying 0.1  
pound of diatomaceous earth per square foot of filter area per 24 hours.  
(c) Is designed to discharge the precoat filter effluent to waste or to an open tank for  
recirculation through the filter and not to the swimming pool or through a closed  
recirculation system.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall provide a means for viewing the precoating  
effluent clarity.  
(3) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that the filter allows the effective  
removal of the filter-aid and the filtered-out material from the septums and the filters to  
waste without disassembly of the filters.  
(4) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pressure diatomaceous earth-  
type filter system shall have a precoat pot.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2001 AACS.  
R 325.2154 Filter accessories.  
Rule 54. (1) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a filter system is equipped  
with valves and piping necessary to isolate the filters for maintenance and repair  
and to completely drain all parts of the filter system.  
(2) A swimming pool owner shall ensure that a pressure-type filter system is  
equipped with a gauge to indicate the filter influent pressure and, if the filter system is  
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