STEP-BY-STEP

Apply to operate a swimming pool or spa

Submit an application to operate an existing or new public swimming pool or spa.

Environmental Health

All public pool and spa operators must have a valid Permit to Operate. We make sure that all public swimming pools and spas are safe and clean. You need a Permit to Operate a pool or spa if you are:

  • Taking over ownership of a pool or spa
  • Building a new pool or spa

1

Submit an application and pay the fee

Cost:

Check the fee schedule

Download and fill out an application. 

Send your completed application and the application fee (by check or money order to the SF Department of Public Health) to: 

SFDPH Environmental Health Branch
ATTN: Water Quality Health Inspector
49 South Van Ness Ave., Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103

2

Build a new swimming pool

If you are constructing, remodeling or changing equipment at a new or existing pool or spa, you need to provide more information:

  • Submit your construction plans and a Pool/Spa Data Sheet for each pool or spa to Corey Chrisman at Corey.Chrisman@sfdph.org
  • If you are installing a pool heater, you will need a Plumbing Permit or a Boiler Permit with the Department of Building Inspection.
  • Schedule site inspections. Contact Corey Chrisman at Corey.Chrisman@sfdph.org for a site inspection before covering any pipes or opening the pool for use.
3

Make sure you understand the operations requirements

Learn about the health and safety requirements for operating a pool or spa. You’ll need to provide this information before we approve your permit.

4

Pay the license fee

If your pool or spa meets all the health and safety requirements, we will approve your Permit to Operate. The San Francisco Tax Collector's office will send you a bill for the annual license fee, which can be found in the fee schedule at the top of this page.