Outdoor swimming pools, spas and indoor pools must pass city inspection. An inspection must also take place after any major maintenance procedures, including resurfacing. Call 952-939-8200 to schedule an inspection.
Please complete the following items prior to the inspection so the pool can be opened and a license can be issued:
- Suction outlet fitting assembly (aka main drain) components manufactured before May 24, 2021 are certified to the previous standard and can be used until the lifespan expires. Suction outlet fitting assemblies manufactured on or after May 24, 2021 will need a maximum flow rate determination. Factors such as pipe size and length, sump depth, pipe orientation must be considered. Any changes to suction outlet fitting assembly, cover, grate, or components will require MDH plan review. Ensure to keep the product specification sheets on site.
- All required safety equipment must be accessible. This includes a life ring and a rope (1.5 times the pool width, but not more than 60 feet), and a minimum 12-foot fixed length shepherd’s crook or life pole for each 2,000 square feet of water surface. Signs stating “Emergency Use Only” must also be posted by all safety equipment.
- Ensure all pump room equipment is provided and operating properly. This includes pressure gauges, sight glasses, flow meters, thermometers and disinfectant feeders. The required pool turnover rate must also be met.
- Your pool test kit must be approved and can test “free chlorine” (0-10 ppm), combined chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and cyanurates (if used).
- All depth markers at the deep end, shallow end and sides of the pools are tiled or painted at least four inches in height and are a maximum of 25 feet apart using a minimum “ft” or “in” designation.
- In locations where diving is not allowed, you must post the words “No Diving” with the letters at least four inches in height, or a universal “no diving” symbol at least four inches in height with the words “No Diving” at least a half-inch in height. These must be in contrasting color at all ends and sides of the pool, spaced a maximum of 25 feet apart. This does not apply to spas or wading pool.
- Steps and ladders must have contrasting front edges tiled or painted at least 0.5–2 inches wide.
- A contrasting stripe at least six inches wide must be present on the pool sides and bottom between all slopes or transition lines. For example, between the shallow and deep ends of the pool.
- Fences must be at least 5 feet high for outdoor pools. All fences and gates must be self-closing and self-latching, capable of being locked and not readily climbable. Fence openings can’t be wider than four inches, and no taller than two inches below the fence. Other requirements may apply (i.e. chain-link fences).
- All signage should include complete updated information, including bather load, rules and emergency signs.
- First-aid kit is only required when a lifeguard is present
- Ensure the safety of all pool users by checking the overall structure and condition of the pool and pool equipment (smooth surfaces, no peeling paint, etc.).
- All pool water chemical levels must be within acceptable ranges.
- Label and identify all piping, including arrows showing directional flow.
- Ensure all pool equipment operational manuals are available.
- Post or provide proof of successful completion of a National Certified Pool Operator’s Course. This certificate must be revalidated every five years. Visit the Minnesota Department of Health’s website for a list of Certified Pool Operator (CPO) training courses.
- Please notify the city of all equipment changes or alterations to the pool such as changing the recirculation system (pump, piping and filter system). These changes may require submission of plans or obtaining permits from the city. All pool equipment must meet National Sanitation Foundation (N.S.F.) standards.
- Please review the previous inspections to ensure all corrections have been completed.
