Swimming Pools and Accessibility

[jar546]

Ensuring swimming pools are accessible to individuals with disabilities isn’t just about meeting a legal requirement—it’s about designing spaces that allow everyone to participate. The ADA lays out clear guidelines to make sure pools are inclusive, and building officials and architects play a key role in making that happen. Understanding these requirements helps avoid compliance issues and ensures that new and existing pools meet accessibility standards.

Understanding the ADA Requirements for Pools​

The ADA requires that public pools and commercial facilities provide accessible entry and exit options. These rules apply to both new pools and alterations to existing ones. The key point is that pools must have at least one or two accessible means of entry, depending on their size.

For larger pools (more than 300 linear feet of pool wall), there must be two accessible entry methods. At least one of these must be a pool lift or a sloped entry, while the second can be another lift, a transfer wall, a transfer system, or pool stairs. Smaller pools (300 linear feet or less) require just one accessible entry, which must be either a pool lift or a sloped entry.

Breaking Down the Different Accessible Entry Methods​

Pool lifts are one of the most common solutions. They need to be installed where the water depth is 48 inches or less unless the entire pool is deeper. The lift must be operable from both the deck and water, meaning a person with a disability should be able to use it independently. Controls have to be simple—no twisting, pinching, or tight grasping required—and must work with no more than five pounds of force. The seat must be at least 16 inches wide, with footrests required for stability. It should lower users into the water at least 18 inches below the surface, and the lift itself must support at least 300 pounds.

Sloped entries (basically a built-in ramp) are another option. They must be at least 36 inches wide and have a gradual slope, no steeper than 1:12 (8.33%). These ramps should extend into the water at least 24 inches deep, and if they’re steeper than 1:20 (5%), they need landings at the top and bottom. Handrails on both sides are required, with a width between them of 33 to 38 inches.

For wading pools, the only required entry method is a sloped entry—makes sense since the water is shallow. Spas must provide at least one accessible entry, which can be a lift, transfer wall, or transfer system.

How This Applies to Existing Pools​

For older pools, these standards must be followed when making alterations or when compliance is "readily achievable." That means if accessibility upgrades can be done without extreme difficulty or cost, they need to be made. If full compliance isn’t possible, facilities should still aim to provide the most access possible.

Ongoing Maintenance and Staff Training Matter​

Having accessible features is useless if they’re broken or staff doesn’t know how to assist people in using them. Pool lifts, ramps, and other accessibility features must always be in working order, and regular maintenance is required. Staff should be trained to understand accessibility concerns and know how to help patrons who need assistance.

Financial Help for Compliance​

ADA compliance costs money, but there are tax incentives to help offset expenses. Small businesses can take advantage of tax credits, and all businesses can qualify for deductions when making accessibility improvements.

Final Thoughts​

Making pools accessible isn’t just about following rules—it’s about creating environments where everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the water. Architects and building officials are on the front lines of making sure pools are designed or updated with inclusivity in mind. The key takeaway? Plan accessibility from the start, keep features in working order, and don’t wait for a complaint to make improvements. A little effort upfront prevents headaches down the road and ensures that public and commercial pools are welcoming to all.