So you’re apartment complex has a pool?

Welcome to our ool. Notice there’s no “P” in it. We’d like to keep it that way.

If your apartment complex has a pool, you’re probably about to open or you already have. In order to keep your residents happy, comfortable, and safe, you will need to maintain this pool in good condition. One way to do this is ensure that all the pool visitors adhere to certain rules. Not everyone may like the rules, but they are essential to ensure that your residents are satisfied with the pool area and the water itself.

You should already be aware of basic policies and procedures that laws in your area expect you to follow. There are also rules you should have to adapt to the circumstances of your specific pool area. There will likely be multiple groups there at once, so you want your residents to be courteous to each other.

Here are some rules to post and execute:

Basic rules:

1. Posted rules and regulations must be followed.
2. The pool hours are __ to __. Entering the pool area when it is closed is considered trespassing.
3. If there is no lifeguard on duty, then you are swimming at your own risk.
4. If there is a lifeguard, then no one is allowed to enter the pool until the lifeguard is on duty.
5. The pool area capacity is __.
6. Do not give the pool code or access key to anyone. The pool is to be locked at all times.
7. You are limited __ guests per resident/pool pass. Guests must be accompanied by the resident at all times. Residents have priority over guests when capacity is reached. Residents are responsible for the actions of their guests.
8. Swimming is prohibited when lightning is present and can be resumed 15 minutes after last strike.
9. The manager or owner is not responsible for any accident or injury at the pool, as guests swim at their own risk.
10. Every precaution is taken to ensure your safety. If, for any reason, the pool and patio are deemed unsafe for use, the facility will be closed immediately and will remain closed until the city, state and/or management deem the area safe for use.
11. Management is not responsible for loss of personal property.
12. The management is required to enforce all the rules and regulations and is authorized to remove anyone in violation and/or suspend their pool privileges.

When children are present:

13. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Non-swimmers should wear proper floating gear and have a swimming adult with them at all times.
14. Children who are not potty-trained must wear swim diapers.
15. Children must play safely and not disturb the other pool guests.

Before entering the pool area be aware:

16. Food and drink are acceptable outside the pool, as long as all trash is disposed of in provided waste bins.
17. Glass and breakable items are not permitted in the pool area.
18. Smoking is not allowed.
19. Only clean and proper swimming attire are permitted in the water.
20. You may not use the pool under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
21. You must take a soap shower before entering the pool.
22. No large objects, like air mattresses, inner tubes, rafts, or big floats
23. No animals, except for service animals in the pool area; absolutely no animals in the pool
24. Do not enter the pool if you have any open wounds. Do not enter the pool if you have an infectious or communicable disease.

When present in the pool area:

25. Keep the music low and family-friendly.
26. Spray on sunscreen only when you are away from other pool guests.
27. No boisterous, obnoxious, or risky behavior, including profanity. Don’t attempt dangerous stunts at the pool.
28. Diving is only permitted in designated areas.
29. Don’t spit, spout water, or blow your nose in the pool.
30. The safety equipment is for emergency use only. Do not tamper or play with the equipment.

When residents sign up for a pool pass, explain all the rules to them. Many problems can be avoided if residents understand what they can and cannot do from day one.

Don’t be afraid to tell people when they are breaking the rules. Pools present a major liability, so it is important that rules are held and enforced.

After developing these rules, make sure you publish them in multiple locations. Each resident should have a paper copy, and there should be signs in the pool area.

Your residents will be thankful for these rules, as they, ultimately keep the pool clean, safe, and friendly to all.