💧 Seasonal Pool Opening: What Ontario Regulation 565 Requires

Prior to opening or re-opening their pools, operators across Ontario begin the critical process of preparing their facilities. Most pools fall under Ontario Regulation 565 (Public Pools) requirements and there are specific requirements that must be met before opening— and continuing throughout the season.

This post highlights key portions of Regulation 565 that apply to seasonal public pools, focusing on water quality, documentation, supervision, and equipment — all covered in the Pool Operator Level 1 & Pool Operator 2 courses offered through AquaSafe Pro Training.

📌 Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer directly to Ontario Regulation 565 and your local public health unit for current regulatory requirements.

📋 Key Requirements Under Regulation 565 for Seasonal Pool Operations

1. Notification of Opening (Section 5)

“No person shall operate a public pool unless the operator has given notice in writing to the medical officer of health... at least 14 days before the pool is opened for use.”

Operators must submit notice of intent to open each season. Your local public health unit may have a specific form or submission process.

2. Supervision Requirements (Section 17–18)

• Lifeguard and attendant requirements vary based on the pool's class and bather load.

• Lifeguards must meet recognized certification standards, such as those set by the Lifesaving Society.

• Appropriate supervision ratios must be maintained at all times the pool is in operation.

3. Water Chemistry and Clarity (Section 7–11)

• The water must be clear enough to see the black disc at the deepest point.

• Free available chlorine and pH levels must be tested and recorded at least every two hours while the pool is in use.

• Specific chemical concentration limits are outlined in the regulation, depending on the disinfectant used (e.g., chlorine or bromine).

4. Daily Recordkeeping (Section 13)

Operators must maintain a logbook that includes:

• Date and time of chemical tests

• Test results (free chlorine, combined chlorine, pH, temperature)

• Bather load

• Observations of clarity or equipment malfunctions

• Records must be kept on-site and made available to public health inspectors upon request.

5. Safety Equipment and Signage (Section 20–21)

• Public pools must be equipped with:

  • Reaching pole

  • Ring buoy with rope (2)

  • Spine board

  • Emergency phone or communication system

  • First aid kit

• Required signage includes:

  • Health Warning Notice

  • Location of emergency telephone

  • Warning signs where lifeguards are not on duty

🎓 Want to Understand Regulation 565 in Context?

AquaSafe Pro Training offers Pool Operator Level 1 & Pool Operator Level 2 courses that walk through the full operational responsibilities of pool operators in Ontario, including:

• Interpreting and applying Regulation 565

• Monitoring water chemistry safely and correctly

• Understanding supervisory and equipment standards

These courses are delivered by certified instructors and aligned with public health requirements and Lifesaving Society Ontario guidelines.

👉 View Course Schedule on our Courses page.

🔒 Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. For official requirements, please refer directly to Ontario Regulation 565 or consult your local public health inspector.