Public Swimming Pool Program

Swimming Pool Quick Links

Regulations Permits Inspections Pool Operator Construction Incident Reporting

Public Swimming Pool Authority

As of July 18, 2026, the administration and enforcement of swimming pool and bather preparation facility permits and inspections within Sarpy County have transitioned to local county authority under Sarpy County Resolution 2026-202. The Sarpy/Cass Health Department has been delegated the authority to conduct all new, annual, and emergency inspections within Sarpy County. 

Sarpy County Minimum Sanitary and Safety Requirements for Swimming Pools (PDF 482 KB)

Contact Us for Swimming Pool Permitting

All public swimming pools and spas in Sarpy County are required to hold a valid, current operating permit issued by Sarpy County to remain open.

For all questions and assistance regarding swimming pool permitting, reach out to the Sarpy County Swimming Pool Program team directly:

• Phone: (402) 593-1565
• Email: [email protected]

For private swimming pool questions, contact your local city or county code enforcement department.

Swimming Pool Inspections

The Sarpy/Cass Health Department is the delegated authority responsible for conducting swimming pool facility inspections within Sarpy County. These inspections are performed to ensure compliance with the Sarpy County Minimum Sanitary and Safety Requirements for Swimming Pools.

Routine Inspections: To ensure ongoing safety, inspections are conducted on an unannounced basis.

Requested Inspections: If you would like to request an inspection, please contact the Department directly.

• Phone: (402) 804-0595
• Email: [email protected]
   

Swimming Pool Operator Requirement

All public swimming pools in Sarpy County are required to have a swimming pool operator responsible for overseeing daily operations and ensuring compliance with Nebraska and County health and safety regulations. This individual plays a critical role in maintaining proper water quality, chemical balance, and facility safety, as well as keeping required operational records and responding to any safety or health concerns. Sarpy County regulations also require that certain pools have a swimming pool operator on site or readily available, depending on the type of facility.

All swimming pool operators must have a current certificate of competency from a pool competency course approved by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE). This is not a complete list, and other approved options may be available:

• Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department Pool Operator Class
• Pool and Hot Tub Alliance Certified Pool Operator Certification
• National Recreation and Parks Association Aquatic Facility Operator Certification
• AquaTech Certified Pool and Aquatic Facility Operator
   

Swimming Pool Construction and Modification

The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) maintains authority over the construction, modification, and improvement of public swimming pools.

• Permit Requirements: Plans and specifications for new swimming pools, as well as any modifications or improvements to existing pools, must be prepared by a design professional.
• Submission Process: All plans and specifications must be submitted to the DWEE in triplicate for review and written approval prior to the beginning of any construction.
• Engineering Documents: You can access the official construction permit application and related forms through the DWEE Forms and Publications library.
• Regulatory Standards: Construction must comply with state regulations, including the design and engineering standards outlined in Title 178 of the Nebraska Administrative Code.

Note on Exceptions: While most modifications require state review, certain maintenance items—such as exact equipment replacements, specific pump repairs, or the installation of authorized controllers—may not require a formal construction permit. Please consult the DWEE Swimming Pool Program page or contact their permitting team directly at (402) 471-8697 for guidance on whether your project requires a submittal.

Safety, Incidents and Reporting Forms

Drowning or Near-Drowning Reporting: In the event of a drowning or near-drowning:

1. Immediately call 911. 
2. Following emergency response, all incidents must be reported immediately to the Sarpy/Cass Health Department at 402-593-1565.
3. Within 24 hours, complete the official Swimming Pool Drowning or Near-Drowning Report Form and email to [email protected]. This form can be obtained from your swimming pool inspector; or
4. Complete and submit the online Swimming Pool Drowning, Near-Drowning, and Accident Report Form below.

Accident Reporting: Additionally, any accident occurring on the pool premises that requires hospitalization or medical treatment must be reported to the Sarpy/Cass Health Department within 24 hours.

Reporting options include:

1. Complete the official Swimming Pool Accident Report Form and email to [email protected]. This form can be obtained from your swimming pool inspector; or
2. Complete and submit the online Swimming Pool Drowning, Near-Drowning, and Accident Report Form below.