Title III of the ADA requires that places of public accommodation (e.g., hotels, resorts, swim clubs, and sites of events open to the public) remove physical barriers in existing pools to the extent that it is readily achievable to do so (i.e., easily accomplishable and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense). – Hat Tip
Recently, we had a campground owner contact us about their swimming pool and adding a ADA compliant pool lift. The lift was going to cost somewhere in the ballpark of $7,000 and we discussed the 2010 ADA standard that has a compliance date of March 15, 2012…almost 3 weeks from today.
So she was going to add it to her policy once installed. Interested with this; we just decided to learn more about it. If you are reading this for advice call the ADA to ask questions and confirm (800)514-0301. This post is simply to give a glimpse and provide accessible, as well as provide a guide on who to contact.
Title III means Private Entity, which is what this campground is. At first blush, I was thinking that because there had not been any modification to an existing structure or pool, there was not a requirement to install the lift. However, I found out by calling the ADA that I was looking in the wrong place…remember every business is different, so call the ADA if you have questions. But the real issue for my client was “Entry into the Pool,” not the buildings or structures.
Because there were never established provisions for “Entry into the Pool” even in 1991; this campground with a pool must remove barriers and put in a fixed lift. If installation of a fixed lift is not readily achievable, one may consider a portable pool lift that complies with 2010 ADA Standards.
If one can not meet the March 15, 2012 compliance date; then the normal operation of the pool could continue, even though it is not accessible; however one needs to provide documentation of when they are removing barriers and installing a fixed ADA standard lift. First call the ADA and discuss with them (800)514-0301, before moving forward.
ADA Info about Pool Accessibility:
http://www.ada.gov/pools_2010.htm
http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/titleIII_2010/titleIII_2010_regulations.htm#a304
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