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New Rules for Aquatic Venues
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) adopted new rules for aquatic venues that include pools, spas, wading pools, and splash pads in a single set of rules. The updates are based on national standards (Model Aquatic Health Code) and went into effect April 1, 2025.
If you have any questions or comments on the rules, please contact Taku Nagamine at takuho.nagamine@oha.oregon.gov
Review the rules, fact sheets and resources on OHA’s website
OHA’s resources include a list of significant changes in English and Spanish, the scientific rationale behind the rules, a daily inspection checklist, a daily aquatic venue testing log, a water standards quality table, a printable imminent health hazards sign, CPR posters, fact sheets for operators, information for swimmers and more.
Remember that all changes (including minor modifications, repairs and equipment replacement) must now be reviewed and approved by OHA. Please contact Taku Nagamine at takuho.nagamine@oha.oregon.gov
Save the Date: Pool Classes coming in April
Clackamas County Public Health is excited to announce we will be hosting John Mason from Pool School of Oregon on April 6-8, 2026. John will be teaching a 2-day Certified Pool Operator (CPO) course and a 1-day Pool Basics class. We will be sending out class details and registration information in early 2026. Once registration opens, class information and forms will also be available on our website.
Calculating the Bather Load
The bather load is the maximum number of people that can be using an aquatic venue at one time. To figure out the bather load for your pool or spa, you will need to know the surface area (in square feet) first.
- For ALL spas: Bather Load = Surface Area ÷ 10
Example of a spa with surface area of 60 ft²: Bather Load = 60 ÷ 10 = 6 bathers - For pools LESS THAN 2,000 square feet: Bather Load = Surface Area ÷ 24
Example of a pool with surface area of 600 ft²: Bather Load = 600 ÷ 24 = 25 bathers - Other Aquatic Venues including pools more than 2,000 square feet:
Refer to rule OAR 333-060 Rule # 4.1.2.3.5.3; and contact us/your inspector if you need assistance with this calculation.
Contact Form
Clackamas County EH inspects all aquatic venues that are open less than six months (“seasonal”) one time per year and all aquatic venues that are open more than six months (“year-round”) twice each year. Please provide the name and contact information (phone and email) for at least one person that our inspectors can reach out to for help in accessing your aquatic venue for these required inspections. Include the form that came with your mailed newsletter with your check if you are paying by check or fill it out online.
