The key changes affecting people living in apartments and other complexes of six or more residential units with shared swimming pools mean that there is:
- No longer a requirement for a lifeguard
- No longer a need to apply for a swimming pool operating permit
- Only occasional inspections, mostly during summer
- No longer a need for auxiliary areas (such as changing rooms, cloakrooms, toilets). However, if they currently exist they must be must be clean, safe, and in good condition during pool operation.
As well as carrots, there are also sticks! If the swimming pool is used in a way that breaks the law, the 'swimming pool manager' faces a fine of up to €2,000.
There are few other changes including safety equipment, signage for bathers including safety rules, list of emergency contact details (hospital, doctor, etc.), first-aid kit.
When it's no longer in use, the swimming pool area must be securely fenced and must be fitted with a protective cover.
To help everyone understand and get to grips with the new law, my unofficial English translation of the new law and regulations may be download from my website. (You may send the document to anyone who may be interested, but please respect the copyright notice.)
Please note that my translations are for general guidance and should not be treated as legal advice. If you’re unsure how the new 2025 swimming pool law affects your property, I recommend seeking professional legal advice or consulting local authorities.
As there's a six-month transitional period for implementing the new law, it should come into force in January 2023.
I hope everyone finds this useful.