A new Mecklenburg County law now allows homeowners to rent out their private swimming pools, creating new ways to stay cool this summer — but not without strict safety requirements.
The law (G.S. 130A-280), which went into effect July 1, permits residents to rent pools using platforms like Swimply, which lists local rentals from $32 to $180 an hour across the Charlotte area. However, Mecklenburg County homeowners must meet six safety standards to qualify as a legal rental.
To rent a backyard pool, owners must:
-
Maintain proper chemical balance in the water.
-
Post clear pool rules and depth signage.
-
Provide life-saving equipment such as life rings and reaching poles.
-
Install fences and self-latching gates to prevent unsupervised access.
-
Use properly fitted covers on submerged suction outlets.
-
Ensure pool decks have non-slip surfaces.
Despite the new opportunity for short-term rental income, Mecklenburg County Public Health officials clarified they will not enforce compliance. The responsibility lies with the homeowner.
The new law specifically excludes private pools from being classified as public swimming facilities — provided they meet all requirements and operate through a sharing economy platform.
The statute also exempts pools used solely by family members and their guests, or therapeutic pools operated under licensed medical supervision.
The trend of renting residential pools is gaining momentum nationwide. But local health officials urge caution, emphasizing the importance of safety and cleanliness. While the law opens the door for a new form of summer leisure, homeowners must take full responsibility to meet legal and safety standards before listing their pools.
