Pool cover requirements

Make sure you understand the requirements for the use and storage of your pool cover.

Different types of pool covers have different requirements. These requirements make sure they are safe for all.

Floating and safety pool covers

If you have a floating or safety pool cover, make sure:

  • You must have a fence or divider to separate the pool from all living units
  • Only the pool manager can have access to the pool when it is not open
  • Lock the pool when the cover is on
  • Completely remove, roll up, and store the cover at least 4 feet from the pool
  • Completely remove spa pool covers from the area so bathers do not use it
  • The pool cover meets current American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) labeling requirements
  • You install and use the cover the way the manufacturer says
  • Stair handrails and deep-end ladders do not get in the way of the cover

 

Stretch pool covers

If you have a stretch pool cover, make sure:

  • Recess tie-down anchors into the deck so they are not a tripping hazard
  • Only the pool manager can have access to the pool when it is not open
  • The pool manager removes and stores the pool cover before the pool is open for use

On-deck pool with on-deck track

If you have a pool on a deck with a pool cover that uses a track, make sure:

  • All retracting mechanisms are at least 4 feet from the pool’s edge
  • Tracks on the deck surface are trip-resistant and not more than ⅝ inches high
  • The track’s color contrasts with the color of the deck’s surface
  • The track does not get in the way of the coping handhold
  • Screws used to secure the track to the deck are countersunk
  • The switch allows you to have a clear view of the entire pool surface
  • The cover will stop moving if you release the switch (“dead man” switch)
  • The cover will return to the open position if it hits a block while closing
  • Only responsible people have keys to operate the pool cover
  • Children are not allowed to access the switch

Sub-surface unit with under-coping track

If you have a pool cover that is under the surface of the water in a track, make sure:

  • The cover can completely go into its case
  • When the cover is open, its housing is flush with the pool deck and forms a handhold 1 - 2 inches over the edge of the pool
  • The track and the coping under it are not more than 2 inches thick total
  • The under water housing compartment drains to an approved disposal system through an air gap
  • The disposal system is not directly connected to any sewer or deck drain system
  • The switch allows you to have a clear view of the entire pool surface
  • The cover will stop moving if you release the switch (“dead man” switch)
  • The cover will return to the open position if it hits a block while closing
  • Only responsible people have keys to operate the pool cover
  • Children are not allowed to access the switch

Canopy pool covers

If you have a pool cover that is a canopy above the pool, make sure:

  • All canopy supports are at least 4 feet from the pool edge when the cover is open
  • The switch allows you to have a clear view of the entire pool surface
  • The cover will stop moving if you release the switch (“dead man” switch)
  • The cover will return to the open position if it hits a block while closing
  • Only responsible people have keys to operate the pool cover
  • Children are not allowed to access the switch
Last updated April 16, 2024