Questions and Answers: Accessibility Requirements for Existing Swimming Pools at Hotels and Other Public Accommodations

12. What if I have two pools or a pool and a spa? Can I share a lift between pools?

In new construction, each pool or spa must provide accessible entry and exit. For existing pools, whether each pool or spa must have its own lift (or other accessible means of entry) depends on whether it is readily achievable. If it is not readily achievable for a business to provide a lift at each pool or spa, it does not mean the inaccessible pool or spa must be closed. In these circumstances, the business should make a plan to purchase and install a compliant pool lift or other accessible entry when it becomes readily achievable to do so.

Sharing non-fixed pool lifts between pools can pose safety risks to swimmers with disabilities because if a lift has been moved to another pool, a person with a disability might be unable to get out of the pool. Sharing lifts between pools also requires people with disabilities to rely on staff assistance to find, move, and set up the lift each time.