Pool Rules & Regulations

The pool rules and regulations for the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation have been established for the benefit and protection of all aquatic facility users to ensure the safe operation of the swimming pools and to provide enjoyable recreation for all. Patrons are requested to cooperate in observing these rules and to obey the instructions of the Aquatics staff. Patrons violating swimming pool rules are subject to the revocation of their swimming privileges.

Consequences of Rule Violations

Failure to abide by these rules and regulations may result in injury to yourself or others. Management and pool personnel reserve the right to address any behavior which is considered a safety risk, unsanitary or a disturbance to others. The Aquatic Managers or their designated staff are responsible for the operation of the pools. Their instruction must be followed at all times. Individuals who violate the rules may be asked to leave without refund and Aquatic Managers may contact Park Police as needed.

Disability Services

Accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including water wheelchairs, pool lifts and personal flotation devices are available upon request. Please speak with a manager on duty. Pool lifts have a weight capacity of 350 pounds.

Rules & Regulations

  1. Pool Rules and Regulations - Spanish (PDF)
  2. Pool Rules and Regulations (PDF)

Personal Flotation Device/Lifejacket Policy

A properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved and labeled Personal Flotation Device (PFD) designed to provide vertical support and to keep the head above the surface of the water may be worn, provided each non-swimmer is accompanied by an adult in the pool within arm’s reach at M-NCPPC pools. The adult must remain in the water in which they can stand flat on the pool bottom. Patrons wearing PFD are not permitted in deep water or deep water play features. PFD are not provided at M-NCPPC facilities.

While PFDs are especially important for use with children, they are not to be substituted for adult supervision, which should always be present and act as the first line of defense in avoiding unwanted water contact.

What is NOT Permitted
Non-USCG approved PFDs inflatable toys, back floats/ bubbles, rafts, inner tubes, water wings, rings (including those built into bathing suits) and similar objects are not permitted in M-NCPPC pools.

Pick a PFD: Size and Style
When shopping for a PFD, choosing the correct size is crucial.

A correct fit is one which snugly conforms to the wearer’s body, yet allows for ease of movement and prevents chafing. Check the label on the PFD for weight limits.

  • Infant PFDs: 8 to 30 lbs
  • Child PFDs: 30 to 50 lbs
  • Youth PFDs: 50 to 90 lbs
  • Adult PFDs: 90 lbs and over

Try It On For Size

  1. Check the manufacturer’s label to ensure that the life jacket is a proper fit for size and/or weight.
  2. Make sure the jacket is properly fastened.
  3. Wearer should hold your arms straight up over your head.
  4. Grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up on the PFD.
  5. Make sure there is no excess room above the arm openings and that the jacket does not ride up over the wearer’s chin or face.
  6. While in the water, if you notice the wearer struggling to keep their chin above the surface or can’t tilt their body to easily float on their back, choose a PFD with higher buoyancy.

It is important to remember that children often dislike the restriction of PFDs, but with the proper approach and set-up, you can prepare your child in the event of an emergency. Because a child’s weight is distributed differently than an adult’s, wriggling, panicked children can put additional strain on their PFDs, making it harder to stay afloat. Remember to familiarize your little one with their personal flotation ahead of time, even encouraging them to wear it to the pool or around the house. Many parents make a game of it and offer rewards to promote correct wear. While PFDs are especially important for use with children, they are not to be substituted for adult supervision, which should always be present and act as the first line of defense in avoiding unwanted water contact.