Use this database to track inspections of public pools – including those maintained by cities, apartment complexes, water parks, homeowners associations and hotels – from across the state. This data reflects state Department of Health inspections from January 2008 through June 2009. Inspection Database - Florida Pools

For more information on specific organisms, suggested chemical treatments and other requirements for maintaining a public swimming pool, visit our Technical Information for Pools page.

Many disease outbreaks in pools and water parks are caused by young children having bowel movements while in the water.

The fecal material from these accidents can contain disease organisms that will spread rapidly if the chlorine levels are low or if they are resistant to disinfectants. If there is an accident at a public pool, please follow the CDC's Fecal Accident Response.

For this reason our Environmental Specialists conduct routine inspections of all licensed public pools a minimum of twice a year, to monitor compliance with disinfection levels, water chemistry and safety requirements.

Manual addition of chemicals are allowed under special conditions and require that the pool be closed prior to addition and for at least 1 hour period after addition or a longer period as necessary for sufficient and safe distribution of the chemical.

Cleanliness – The pool and pool deck must be kept free from sediment, floating debris, visible dirt and algae. Pools must be refinished when the pool surfaces cannot be maintained in a safe and clean condition.

Food, drink and glass containers are not allowed in the pool and on the pool wet deck area.

All equipment and sections of the pool and pool area must be kept in good repair.

This Picture shows a hand rail and steps not being maintained.

This picture shows a defective light creating a safety hazard.

This picture shows unsanitary conditions.

Dangerous conditions may occur if public pools are not routinely inspected.  When use of a public swimming pool requires an admission or a membership fee, the most recent pool inspection report must be posted in plain view.  Sanitary facilities must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition and supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels or blow dryer, soap and waste baskets must be provided.

Activity accessories such as volleyball and basketball nets may be used for designated times provided a clear four foot deck area is maintained behind the structures. When the pool is open for general use these accessories are not allowed.

Beaches

The Environmental Health Section also inspects and obtains samples of Beach Water to ensure the safe use of the Beaches by citizens and guests. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) Charlotte County Health Department is participating in the Florida Healthy Beaches Program. The Healthy Beaches Program involves the monitoring of salt or brackish water beaches and issues health advisories if beach waters fail to meet required standards. The goal of the program is to prevent waterborne illness by advising Florida residents and visitors against recreating in potentially contaminated waters.
Nine beaches throughout Charlotte County are sampled and monitored weekly for numbers of bacteria because may cause illness in swimmers. If high amounts of bacteria are ingested while in recreational waters or enter through an open cut or sore they may cause human disease or infections. The most common symptoms include rashes, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Metal signs can be found on the monitored beaches. They will read “This Beach Monitored as Part of the Healthy Beaches Program”. Under normal conditions the sign reads “No Water Quality Advisory at this Time.” Should a warning or an advisory be issued based upon the results of the sampling the signs will be changed to read “ADVISORY” “High Bacteria Levels. Swimming NOT Recommended -- Increased Risk of Illness at This Time”. This statement along with the large universal no swimming icon should warn individuals to refrain from recreating in the water until the advisory is lifted.

DOH promotes and protects the health and safety of all people in Florida through the delivery of quality public health services and the promotion of health care standards.

For current Beach Testing information please visit: Florida Department of Health, Healthy Beaches Program.