pre-opening inspections

The Snohomish County Board of Health Code calls for seasonal pools and spas to be inspected a minimum of two times each operating season. This year, the Snohomish County Health Department is once again offering that the first of those two inspections may be a pre-opening inspection. The advantage of this to an operator is that there is no concern about a pool or spa closure as a result of the inspection. You will receive an inspection report which may list some corrections or repairs that are required prior to opening for the season. There would then be at least one more routine inspection during the summer. The public health benefit of this arrangement is that more facilities will be in compliance with the pool and spa regulations beginning the first day of operations.

All pre-opening inspections will occur during the month of May. A facility should have everything in place to open at the time of the pre-opening inspection. Water chemistry should be adjusted to be within operating parameters and spas should be heated to normal operating temperatures.

If you are interested in scheduling a pre-opening inspection, please submit your request by email at SHD-EHQ@snoco.org or you can call 425.339.5250. A pool inspector will call you back to schedule an inspection.

is your pool ready to open?

Swim season is just around the corner here are some items to have in place before opening: 

• Check to make sure the doors and gates are self-closing/self-latching for non-lifeguarded pools. Move flowerpots, furniture, garbage cans and anything else that can be used to climb into the pool area away from the exterior of the fence. 
• The emergency 911 phone should be operational and tested often. It is recommended the physical address be posted near the phone. Document the phone tests on the daily monitoring logs.
• Order your pool chemicals to guarantee they are on-hand throughout the season.
• Test the emergency shut-off and confirm all recirculation pump(s) turn off and the audible alarm is functional. The switch should be clearly marked.
• Make sure to replace your test kit annually:
  • The Health Department uses Taylor Technologies K-2006 Complete Kit with FAS-DPD for all pool inspections. Check out Taylor Technologies video archive on how to use their kits.
• Inspect the first aid kit and replenish any missing or expired items. 
• All safety equipment should be in good condition. This includes a 12-foot reach pole with a secured life hook and a throwing buoy with rope attached that is the width of the pool.
• Make sure all signage is up-to-date and posted in a conspicuous place. Required signage rules can be found here. 
• Monitor the pool/spa throughout the day for water chemistry and water clarity. Record water chemistry and pool/spa closures in your maintenance log. Always self-close the pool and spa when the following conditions exist. You can download the log sheets here. 
• Chemicals off? Pump not working? If your pool or spa is closed you need to notify bathers not to enter. Download a maintenance closure sign.

Below are the most common violations found at permitted facilities:

2025 Annual pool and spa conference 

Training hosted by Washington State Department of Health's Water Recreation Program staff. The goal of this training was to provide a safe and healthy swimming environment for everyone. The information covered included how pools work, common mistakes, and how to meet the requirements of pool operation. A recording of the conference can be found here.