Is a lifeguard required to have when using my backyard pool?

QWe have a backyard pool, which we use as a family and, on occasion, have others over to enjoy. Our son, who is 15, is having a birthday party with about 10 kids. Is a lifeguard required?

AAs of Jan. 1, 2018, California pool owners are required to install at least two of seven specific drowning prevention safety features. These include a fence (which must meet certain criteria), a pool cover, an alarm (for example, one that recites “the pool door is open”), and/ or a latching door.

Research indicates you are not required to have a lifeguard on duty for what you describe, but if you are having a group — which includes a number of young people — it certainly would not be unwise to have a trained person keeping a close eye on things.

The law may not require it, but if some tragic event occurs, could you be accused of carelessness for which liability may be attached for not taking the precaution of having a lifeguard (or similar person) there? Yes. You can post a sign, such as “No Lifeguard on Duty,” and other notices can be posted as well, but think out what makes the most sense.

QIs our pool cleaner required to have a license in California?

AA contractor's license, issued by the California State Licensing Board, is not required to simply clean pools. A contractor's license is required, however, if the job or project costs $500 or more. So if the pool person is charging you less than $500, a license is not required; but if the worker installs equipment or carries out repairs that cost at least $500, then a license is required.

Resource

The California Department of Public Health has details online about California swimming pool requirements, including drowning prevention, safety features and first aid at cdph.ca.gov. Or you can go to your web browser and type in “CDPH, California Swimming Pool Requirements.”