Keeping your public swimming pools and beaches safe
Recreational water facilities include public beaches, swimming pools, hot tubs, wading pools, and water parks.
Our environmental health officers inspect and approve commercial/public pools and hot tubs regularly for public safety. They also monitor recreational beaches during the swimming season. Our public health engineers also issue construction permits for public and commercial pools.
Important Notice: Swimming message for Shuswap and Mara Lakes
Due to high water levels and flooding there is an increased amount of debris (logs etc.) in Mara and Shuswap Lakes. Some beaches have limited or no access. There may also be increased bacterial levels in the lake water. High use beaches are being monitored and swim advisories will be posted if necessary. Swimmers should make efforts not to ingest lake water and swim with caution when near debris. Children should be closely supervised.
Beach water quality
Some Interior Health Lakes are tested throughout the swimming season to ensure the health of swimmers. Find out about current beach sampling results. Beaches that are not participating in the District of West Kelowna are Gellatly Bay, Marina Park, Willow Beach at Powers Point and Marjorie Pritchard Memorial Park. The beaches not participating in the District of Peachland are Swim Bay.
Find out about current beach sampling results for beach owners.
Constructing, altering & renovating a pool, hot tub or water park
You must receive approval from Interior Health before constructing a new public or commercial swimming pool or hot tub. Find out how to apply on our resources page.
Inspection reports
View inspection reports on recreational water facilities.
Have a complaint or concern?
If you have a health and safety concern or complaint about a swimming pool or recreational water facility, please contact your local health protection office.
Operating a pool, hot tub or water park
Every operator of a commercial/public recreational water facility (swimming pool, hot tub, or spray/wading pool) must have a valid operating permit. Find out how to apply on our resources page.
Other resources
For more information on application forms, regulations, guidelines, pool safety plan templates, sampling, training organizations/courses, and cleaning instructions, see our resources page.