Public Swimming Pool Authority
Important Update: Swimming Pool Program Administration
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
Contact Us for Swimming Pool Permitting
For all questions and assistance regarding swimming pool permitting, reach out to the Sarpy County Swimming Pool Program team directly:
- Phone: 402-593-1565 (Permitting inquiries only)
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 and bather preparation 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.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 402-339-4334
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 staff 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 Facility Safety and Operational Forms
Recordkeeping Logs: Swimming pool operators are required to maintain accurate daily, weekly, and situational records as outlined in the Sarpy County Minimum Sanitary and Safety Requirements. The following log template is provided as an optional resource to assist with these requirements. You may utilize this form or create your own, provided that all mandatory data—including patron loads, chemical usage, maintenance logs, and required testing results—is documented and available for review upon request.
Recordkeeping Daily Logs
Corrective Action Requirements: Following an inspection, facilities are required to use the official Corrective Action Form to document the resolution of any identified safety or sanitation violations that required closure of the facility. While this form will typically be initiated and partially completed by the inspector during your site visit, a sample is available here for your reference so you may review the required documentation steps in advance.
Corrective Action Form
Accident Reporting: Pursuant to Sarpy County requirements, swimming pool operators must notify Sarpy County of any drowning or near-drowning incident immediately via telephone and follow-up with a Drowning or Near Drowning Report Form. Additionally, any accident occurring on the pool premises that requires hospitalization or medical treatment must be documented using the official Accident Report Form and submitted to the Sarpy/Cass Health Department within 24 hours. Please download and print the form below to have it available on-site for emergency use.
Accident Report Form
Drowning or Near-Drowning Report Form
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 Environmental Safety portal or their 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.