Water Recreation

Ensuring Safe Water Recreation Facilities in Island County

The Island County Public Health Department's Water Recreation Program works to ensure a safe and healthy environment at all public pools, spas, and water parks. Our Environmental Health staff conduct annual inspections of these facilities to verify compliance with state health and safety standards. These efforts are essential to prevent the spread of recreational water illnesses (RWIs), reduce the risk of injury, and promote drowning prevention.

For the Public: Swimmers & Families

Enjoying the water is a great way to stay active. Here are some resources to help you and your family stay safe and healthy while you swim.

Healthy Swimming Tips

  • Check the water: It should be clear, clean, and you should be able to see the drain at the bottom of the deep end.
  • Don't swallow the water: Teach kids to avoid swallowing pool, lake, or river water.
  • Practice good hygiene: Shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the restroom.
  • Stay home when sick: Do not swim if you or your child have had diarrhea in the last two weeks.

Know the Risks & Safety Rules

  • Healthy Swimming - Guidance to prevent injury or illness when using swimming facilities (from the CDC).
  • Pool Safety - Essential safety tips for parents and caregivers from the WA Department of Health.
  • Water Recreation - Information on Washington State laws and best practices for boating and swimming in open water like lakes and rivers.

Report a Concern: Have you seen an issue at a public pool or spa? If you have concerns about water clarity, broken equipment, or unclean facilities, please let us know.

Click Here to File a Complaint

For Pool & Spa Operators

This section contains the necessary regulations, forms, and resources for operating a public water recreation facility in Island County. We inspect water recreational facilities (pools and spas) at a minimum of once per year to ensure safe and healthy conditions.

  • State Regulations - Construction and maintenance requirements for regulated recreational water facilities such as swimming pools, spas, water parks, and wading pools. Regulated facilities include pools at athletic or private clubs, municipal or park facilities, hotels, motels, apartments, condominiums, mobile home parks, RV parks, and homeowner association communities.
  • Pool Operator Resources - Learn about Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Training and find resources to help you maintain a safe facility.