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OBC DIVISION B · PART 3 · SECTION 3.11 — PUBLIC POOLS

Where do water depth markings have to go on a public pool in Ontario?

Depth markings must be displayed at the pool so bathers can see the water depth before entering, including at points of maximum and minimum depth and at breaks in slope, in clearly legible, contrasting characters visible from the deck.

Code reference
Section 3.11 requires public pools to display water depth markings that are clearly visible to bathers, located to indicate the depth at key points around the basin including the shallow and deep extremes and where the bottom slope changes, using legible characters that contrast with their background so depths can be read from the deck.
OBC Division B, Section 3.11 (Public Pools)

Paraphrased for clarity — open this provision in the BUILDAiD Library for the exact wording.

What this means in practice

Depth marking is a construction requirement, not just an operational sticker exercise, so show the markings on drawings and specify durable materials such as inlaid tile. Reviewers look for markings at the shallowest and deepest points, at the transition between shallow and deep sections, and at intervals around the perimeter so no bather is far from a visible depth. Where diving is prohibited by shallow depth, no-diving indicators are commonly required alongside. Public health inspectors verify markings before issuing the operating approval, so getting them wrong delays opening.

Plain language

Public pools must have depth numbers painted or tiled around the edge so swimmers can see how deep the water is before jumping in. Marks are required at the shallow end, deep end, and where the bottom starts to drop off.

Related questions

What counts as a public pool under the Ontario Building Code?What are the deck requirements for a public pool in Ontario?What are the drain and suction entrapment safety rules for public pools in Ontario?

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This page is provided for general information. Building code requirements depend on your specific project, occupancy and municipality, and code editions change. Always verify requirements against the current Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.