Do you manage a public pool, splash pad, or other aquatic facility?
Aquatic facilities include public pools, splash pads, aquatic centers, therapy pools, HOA and apartment complex pools, gym and other club pools, and wave, surf, and similar venues.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is updating Virginia’s public pool and aquatic facility regulations, and we want to keep you informed. By completing this short survey, you’ll be added to our email list for updates on regulatory processes, guidance, and other important announcements.
The survey takes only a few minutes, and your facility’s information will contribute directly to:
- Better statewide data for planning and safety efforts
- Faster notifications regarding regulatory updates, guidance, or inspection procedures
- More accurate outreach during emergencies or waterborne illness investigations
- Improved transparency and communication between VDH and aquatic facility operators
Stay informed. Complete the survey today: Aquatic Facility Information Survey
Overview of Action
Chapter 53 of the 2026 Acts of Assembly amended the Code of Virginia (§ 32.1-248.1) related to public pools and other public aquatic facilities.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is collaborating with a stakeholder workgroup. Together, VDH and the workgroup will develop new regulations that align with the Code of Virginia. This workgroup includes owners, operators, and people interested in public aquatic facilities.
Public aquatic facilities include:
- swimming pools,
- wading pools,
- wave pools,
- surf pools,
- lazy rivers,
- hot tubs,
- therapy pools,
- splash pads,
- aquatic facilities owned by apartments, condos, private clubs, or associations, and
- other public aquatic facilities.
The change in law does not apply to individual single-family backyard pools at private homes. The change in law does not apply to natural waters, such as ponds, lakes, streams, rivers, bays, or the ocean.
Information about the rule‑making process will be posted on the Virginia Town Hall website. You can also check back here for updates as they become available.
Updates
VDH is working with the workgroup to help write new rules that follow the 2026 law and updated sections of the Code of Virginia. The rules are not final - they are in development. Once a draft rule is ready, it will be posted on Virginia Town Hall for review and comment.