Public Pools

The public swimming pool program is designed to protect the public from the risk of disease and injury at public swimming pools and bathing places. Public pools include conventional pools, spa-type pools, wading pools, special purpose pools or water recreation in locations where people gain admission to the pool with or without a fee being charged. Environmental health inspectors permit over 500 public pools and spas in Okaloosa County. The governing authority for this program is Florida Administrative Code 64E-9 and Florida Statute Chapter 514.

These facilities are inspected a minimum of two times per year to verify that facilities comply with state standards for pool construction, maintenance, water quality and safety equipment. Additional inspections may be conducted in response to citizen complaints. Inspection reports are available to the public.

Pool and Spa Main Drain Grate/Cover Retrofits

Permitting a New Public Pool Facility

The permitting process in Okaloosa County is handled by the Florida Department of Health in Escambia County (DOH-Escambia). The office is open Monday - Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and can be reached at 850-595-6700. More information about public swimming pool permit process.

Step 1
Commercial Pool Contractor submits Application DH 4159 to Florida Department of Health in Escambia County with engineer plans and $150 initial inspection fee.

The application should be sent to DOH-Escambia County at:

FDOH-Escambia Downtown Service Center
1300 W. Gregory St.
Pensacola, FL 32501

DOH-Escambia will supply an Application Receipt Letter for submission to the local building official.

Step 3
Local Building Department will issue construction permit for pool facility if plans meet all requirements. Both DOH-Escambia and local Building Official will provide comments on Engineer plans

Step 4
Both DOH-Escambia and the local Building Official will inspect pool facility for compliance before an annual operating permit can be issued. An Annual operating permit will be issued after payment of all applicable fees and satisfactory inspections have been received from the Building Official and DOH-Escambia.

Modifications to Public Pool

Changes to equipment and repairs to public pool facilities require modification approval from the DOH and the local Building Official. Application by a licensed commercial pool contractor for modification is required on Application DH 4159. Modifications require notification of the local Building Official and DOH. All applicable permits will be required.

For more information about: Public Pools