Page updated January 2025.
On a regular basis, our Public Health Inspectors inspect recreational water facilities including public pools, public spas, public splash pads and public wading pools, to make sure they are in compliance with Ontario Regulation 565/90, Public Pools, and do not present a health hazard to the public.
Inspection Results and Complaints
Visit our Inspections and Enforcement page to see results of recreational water facility inspection reports.
You can also contact us to request a copy:
Email: environmental.health@healthunit.ca
Phone: 705-474-1400 Ext. 5400 Toll-free: 1-800-563-2808
Notification to Open/Re-Open a Recreational Water Facility
All operators of public pools, spas, and Class C recreational water facilities are required to notify the Medical Officer of Health or Public Health Inspector of commencement of operation, a minimum of 14 days prior to (re)opening to allow time for inspection.
This includes when a facility is:
- reopening after being closed for more than four weeks
- closed for construction
- a new facility
Backyard Pools and Spas Available for Public Use
A number of apps/online marketplace platforms allow residential pool owners (hosts) to rent or share their private pool to/with members of the public. The Public Pools Regulation exempts private residential pools and spas that are rented out to the public, whether or not an access fee is charged.
If you are using or considering using online platforms to enable the short-term rental of your private pool or spa to the public, you are required to post a sign, using prescribed wording, that the pool is not subject to the requirements of the regulation.
If a pool or spa is available for rent to the public, the Health Unit does have the authority to follow-up and conduct complaint-based inspections of these facilities for potential health hazards.