Alerts:  Spokane Regional Health District's offices will be closed Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial Day.   |  Feb. 21: Some federal websites are experiencing disruptions while being reviewed for compliance with President Trump’s executive orders. As a result, some links and information on srhd.org may be unavailable.

Contact Us

Complaints and illnesses associated with public or semi-public water recreation facilities are investigated.

Program Overview

The Water Recreation Program protects public health by working with owners and operators of public and semi-public water recreation facilities to prevent drowning, illnesses and injuries. Approximately 194 seasonal and 78 annual facilities in Spokane County are permitted and inspected at least annually for compliance with state regulations.

The Water Recreation Program provides additional services, such as plan review and pre-occupancy inspections of new or modified facilities, response to public health or safety concerns regarding permitted facilities, and water safety consultations for pool owners and operators. The program also works with community partners to provide drowning prevention education to the public.

Two environmental health specialists (inspectors) and a technical advisor staff the Water Recreation Program, in addition to clerical and management support. 

Fees are charged for permits and construction review. There is no charge for complaint response, illness investigation, or consultation. Drowning prevention and community education are supported by general fund dollars, i.e., state allocation and contributions from Spokane County.


Pool Operator Training

This training provides education about the operational requirements for pools and spas in Washington state. It highlights the critical items to address at your facility to help protect the health and safety of users and to prepare for public health inspections of your facility. It also includes lifeguarding and drowning prevention tips and provides some updates on the Washington State Department of Health Water Recreation Facilities Rule Revision.

Self-Assessment Checklist

Download and use this Self-Assessment Checklist to identify issues with a water recreation facility and prepare for inspections.


Resources

Water Recreation Facilities Rule Revision
Water Recreation Facilities Rule Revision

Washington State Department of Health is revising water recreation rules. Find out what this means for your facility.

See Rule Revision