Accessible Swimming Pools, Wading Pools and Spas - A Summary of Accessibility Guidelines for Recreation Facilities

Swimming Pools

Large pools must have a minimum of two accessible means of entry.  A large pool is defined as any pool with over 300 linear feet of pool wall.  Pool walls at diving areas and in areas where swimmers cannot enter because of landscaping or adjacent structures are still counted as part of the pool’s total linear feet.

The primary means of entry must be either a sloped entry into the water or a pool lift that is capable of being independently operated by a person with a disability.  The secondary means of entry could be a pool lift, sloped entry, transfer wall, transfer system, or pool stairs.  It is recommended that where two means of entry are provided, they be different types and be situated on different pool walls.

Pools with less than 300 linear feet of pool wall are only required to provide one accessible means of entry, which must be either a pool lift or sloped entry.