Panama City Beach -- Swimming is the third most popular sport behind walking and gym workouts. Starting March 15, 2012 some people may be enjoying swimming pools more often.

“The disabled and handicap people should be able to enjoy a pool just like you and I do, so I think it is great” said Barbara Gudgel, Cox Pools.

The American Disability Association compliance law requires all public swimming pools in the United States to be equipped with assisted entry systems. Most all the public and municipal facilities have to comply. Those less than 300 linear feet must have either a chair lift or a sloped entry. Larger pools must have more than one entry method that is handicapped accessible. Alternatives to a pool lift include a zero entry slope, but installing one can be costly to an existing pool.

“If you have an existing pool, the most economical way and easiest way would be to get a chair lift” said Gudgel.

Chair lifts can run about $3,000 dollars and up. Government tax rebates can reduce that cost, but failure to comply could mean a fine up to $100,000 dollars. Hotel pools must be handicap accessible because of its short-term occupancy, but the law may not apply to all condos that rent long-term.

“There are some condos that can be excluded, and it has to do with the rental if the condominium has rental properties or not” said Gudgel.

Cox Pools is holding a public ADA compliance meeting.

When: Thursday, February 9, 2012 10:00am and 11:00am.
Where: Comfort Suites, 225 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32427