Pool cover requirements

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