Pools, Spa Pools, and Bathing Places

The Florida Department of Health is responsible for the routine surveillance of water quality and safety at all public swimming pools. To protect public health, the department has adopted sanitation and safety standards for public pools and enforces these rules through the issuance of operating permits and inspections.

Inspections

Our Environmental Health Engineering team assists local building departments with the review of applications and plans for construction permits of new or modified public swimming pool facilities in Nassau County. These facilities include swimming pools, therapy spas, wading pools, interactive water features, and special water park attractions. Once permitted by the local building departments and constructed, a final engineering inspection is conducted prior to the issuance of the operating permit. These inspections ensure compliance with applicable standards and that all equipment is functioning as originally designed.

Our staff routinely inspect public swimming pools and spas that serve hotels, condominiums, apartment buildings, and other public facilities. These inspections check for water chemistry, safety equipment, and recirculation equipment.

Where to Send Pool Plans

Local Building Departments have the sole authority to issue plan approval and construction approval of public swimming pools. Owners must apply for and receive a Department of Health permit before operating the pool.

Bathing Places

The bacteriological water quality of public bathing places is also monitored by the department. Due to Florida's high median temperature and the possibility of infection from microorganisms, very few beaches, lakes, streams, rivers, or springs meet the state's criteria for approved bathing places.