It’s hard to believe right now, but summer will arrive. And when it does, pool season begins in full swing. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing to reopen your backyard pool or a property manager maintaining a community facility, it’s crucial to understand the current laws and regulations surrounding swimming pools in Massachusetts.
This article is an update from our 2017 review of Massachusetts Laws and Regulations Regarding Swimming Pools. Ready for a refresher and update on what you need to know, great, let’s dive in (pun intended).
Know The Law
If you own or manage a pool in Massachusetts—whether it’s a private residential pool, or a public or semi-public pool at an apartment complex, hotel, club, or school—you are legally responsible for ensuring it complies with state and local safety requirements.
Massachusetts adheres to the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR), which includes provisions from the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). This code lays out specific requirements for barriers, gates, water clarity, safety signage, and more. Additionally, the Department of Public Health (105 CMR 435.000) regulates the maintenance and operation of public and semi-public pools.
Key Codes and Regulations for 2025
For Residential Pools:
- Barriers: Pools must be surrounded by a fence or wall at least 48 inches (4 feet) high. The barrier must not allow the passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere.
- Gates: Entry gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches at least 54 inches above ground level.
- Covers: While not legally required in all municipalities, safety covers are strongly recommended for added protection when the pool is not in use.
- Permits: Any new residential pool installation requires a permit and inspection by the local building department.
For Public and Semi-Public Pools:
- Signage: “No Lifeguard on Duty” signs must be posted where applicable, and emergency contact information must be clearly visible.
- Fencing: Must be enclosed by a fence at least 6 feet high, with self-closing, self-latching gates.
- Safety Equipment: A life ring and a rescue hook must be clearly visible and accessible at all times.
- Annual Inspections: Pools must be inspected and approved annually by the local health or building department before opening for the season.
- Closure Requirements: Outdoor pools must be drained and covered within 7 days of seasonal closing.
- Water Testing & Filtration: Daily testing of water chemistry (pH and chlorine levels) is required during operation. Filtration and disinfection systems must be fully operational at all times.
Local Requirements May Vary
Some towns and cities enforce additional or more stringent pool safety rules. Always check with your local building and health departments to confirm specific requirements in your area. This includes zoning ordinances and setback regulations that may affect where and how a pool can be installed.
Why Compliance Matters
Noncompliance with state or local pool regulations can result in:
- Fines of up to $1,000 per violation
- Delays in opening your pool for the season
- Increased liability if an accident occurs on your property
Most importantly, compliance protects lives. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of unintentional injury deaths in children. Proper fencing, supervision, and safety measures make a life-saving difference.
How to Insure Your Swimming Pool
Interested in learning more about how to insure your swimming pool? Check out our article on Insuring Your Swimming Pool where we dig into the specific requirements for insuring a swimming pool in Massachusetts. If you are interested in talking to an advisor at Deland, Gibson to make sure you have the right coverage for your pool, contact us today.
Providing Peace of Mind Through Proactive Service
Deland, Gibson: a Trusted Choice, Five Star Accredited independent insurance agency. Established in Massachusetts in 1900, Deland, Gibson is a 4th generation family-run insurance agency that has thrived working as a trusted advisor for its client base. We work with individuals and businesses to lower their Total Cost of Risk. We analyze a client’s direct and indirect costs and implement risk reduction plans to address areas of business, hazard, or strategic risk.
