Pools, Spas, and Beaches
Pool permits
Permitting and Inspections for Pools, Spas, and Beaches
The Monroe County Health Department licenses and inspects all public and semi-public swimming pools, wading pools, spas, and beaches routinely for maintenance of proper water chemistry, required safety equipment, and cleanliness of bath houses, locker rooms, and proper filtration systems. The Monroe County Swimming Pool, Spa, and Beach Ordinance follows the rules and regulations required by the Indiana State Department of Health. The Health Department has the authority to close public and semi-public water recreational facilities that do not follow the Indiana State Department of Health regulations. Facilities are required to correct the cited violations before reopening.
Reasons for Closure
The Health Department may close a facility for a violation of 410 IAC 6-2.1-43, which includes having:
- Three unsatisfactory bacteriological pool samples within six weeks OR two unsatisfactory pool samples in a row;
- Free chlorine levels below the minimum (1, 2, or 3 ppm, depending on the type of pool) or above the maximum (7 ppm);
- Water too cloudy to see the main drain in the deep end of the pool;
- A main drain cover that is broken, missing, or does not meet VGBA requirements;
- Insufficient lifeguarding;
- A pump, filter, or disinfectant feeder that is not functional;
- A fecal accident;
- Spa temperatures over 104 degrees;
- pH less than 6.8 or equal to or greater than 8.0; or
- Any other condition, situation, or installation that may result in a health or safety hazard or transmit disease.
Managers & Operators—Opening Your Pool
There are multiple steps to take before you can open your pool for the season:
- Submit your permit application online—click on the box below to start!
- Pay your permit fees (rates and totals are explained in the application).
- Start submitting your weekly pool samples for biological testing at least one week prior to pool opening.
- Schedule your opening/permitting inspection with Health Department staff after you have received your first satisfactory pool sample. Inspections do not need to be scheduled for the day of opening.
- Pass your inspection! Ensure that your pool is operating according to code for your inspection, whether or not you plan to open the pool that day.
Pool Code
All semi-public and public pools must operate according to both Indiana and Monroe County codes, which can be found online.
The Monroe County Health Department has IAC pool code books available for free for operators that include easy to read checklists and grids for tracking pool sample results. Just ask!
Click HERE to begin your Pool, Spa, and Beach Permit.
Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) Swimming Pool and Spa Program
Health Department Swimming Pool Permit Fees
- Year-Round (open more than 5 months) Pool and Spa Permits - $450.00 per unit
- Seasonal (open 5 or fewer months) Pool and Spa Permits - $250.00 per unit
*Fees are subject to change
Revisions are now in effect
Rule 410 IAC 6.2.1 has been revised to include the regulation of Tourist Homes and updated. The revised rule went into effect on August 26, 2010. Anyone involved with swimming pools should study the revised rule.
Please contact our Sr. Environmental Health Specialist at (812) 349-2882 or email at sbaker@co.monroe.in.us for more information.
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Contact Us
Health Administrator
- Phone: (812) 349-2543
- Fax:
(812) 339-6481 - Staff Directory
- M - F 8:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m.
