Public swimming facilities in Cattaraugus County require inspection and a "Permit to Operate" issued by the Health Department.  Typically, these fall into one of two categories, swimming pools and bathing beaches.  If you intend to operate one of these facility types, please contact the Environmental Health Division.  Note that all public swimming facilities require review and approval of engineering plans prior to construction.

Public Swimming Pools

A swimming pool is defined as any structure, together with any buildings and appurtenances, intended for bathing, swimming or diving purposes constructed of an impervious material located indoors or outdoors.  Private swimming pools, spa pools used under medical supervision, and float or relaxation tanks used for solitary immersion are exempt from permit requirements.

Each public swimming pool receives an annual inspection to ensure compliance with "Subpart 6-1, 10NYCRR: Swimming Pools", must have an approved swimming pool safety plan, and must report the daily operation of its disinfection equipment.

Public Bathing Beaches

A bathing beach is defined as the water and land, together with any buildings and appurtenances, used as a bathing place at a pond, lake, stream or other body of water.  Private bathing beaches are exempt from permit requirements.

Each bathing beach receives an annual inspection, and water quality is routinely monitored throughout the operational season.  Each public bathing beach receives an annual inspection to ensure compliance with "Subpart 6-2, 10NYCRR: Bathing Beaches", and must have an approved bathing beach safety plan.

Resources for Public Swimming Facility Operators

Applications for a Health Department "Permit to Operate" a Public Swimming Pool or Bathing Beach

Operation Report Forms for Public Swimming Pools 

NYSDOH Swimming Pool Safety Plan Template 

NYSDOH Bathing Beach Safety Plan Template

Environmental Health Services Fees