There are online platforms in operation in B.C. that allow homeowners to rent out their private pool. These services are similar to short-term accommodation rentals.

Regulation of pools in B.C.

British Columbia’s Pool Regulation does not apply to private residential pools if the pool is used by occupants and guests of a single-family dwelling or duplex. This includes permanent and temporary pools.

However, when a private residential pool is rented to other users, it meets the definition of a “commercial pool” in the Pool Regulation. The operation of a commercial pool is subject to all requirements of the B.C. Pool Regulation. This includes the requirement for a permit from the local health authority. For more information, visit www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/296_2010.

Regulated activities

The operation of a commercial pool is a regulated activity.

Anyone who engages in a regulated activity must take reasonable care to prevent health hazards from arising during the activity.

It is important that the owner and renters of the pool are aware of the risks and their responsibilities when engaging in this type of activity.

Health hazards

Health hazards to individuals using recreational water facilities may include drownings, suction or entrapment hazards and other potentially fatal physical injuries.

Other health hazards include infectious diseases from bacteria, viruses and protozoa. Microorganisms can enter recreational water from open sores, shedding of skin or fecal material of infected individuals, and cause illness in other users. For more information about health risks and staying safe while using private residential pools, visit:

• HealthLinkBC File #27a Residential hot tubs and pools: Health and safety tips
• HealthLinkBC File #27b Residential hot tubs and pools: Safe water quality

The Pool Regulation sets out requirements for recirculation, filtration and disinfection of water which help to reduce these hazards.

Meeting regulatory requirements

B.C.’s public health regulations are in place to protect public health and reduce the burden on the B.C. health care system. It is critical for residential pool owners to understand their responsibilities and liabilities.

Residential pools are generally not designed to meet commercial pool requirements. It may be too expensive in many cases or even impossible for a private residential pool to meet the regulatory requirements of a commercial pool.

A residential pool will likely need significant upgrades to its general construction and design. For example, adding depth markings, or altering pool basin and deck tile colour and contrast. A residential pool will also likely need modifications to its filtration and disinfection systems. More comprehensive and ongoing maintenance will also be required.

To ensure the construction and operation of these pools meet regulatory standards, construction and operating permits issued by your regional health authority are required.

B.C.’s health authorities are responsible for supporting pool operators in complying with the Pool Regulation. You can reach out to your local health authority’s Environmental Health office for more information. To find your local health authority, visit www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/health-authorities/regional-health-authorities.

For more information

B.C.’s Guidelines for Pool Design and Guidelines for Pool Operations are intended to help pool designers, operators and regulators interpret the Pool Regulation and represent generally accepted minimum standards of safe practices. For more information, visit www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/water/water-quality/recreational-water-quality.

The National Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health has published a blog post detailing the public health considerations of backyard pool rentals and how different jurisdictions across Canada view them. For more information, visit https://ncceh.ca/resources/blog/backyard-swimming-pool-rentals-making-splash-some-environmental-public-health-risks.