U.S. Pool Phone Laws
Arizona (Phoenix)
An emergency telephone is required at each pool. Emergency contact numbers for hospitals and doctors must be posted nearby.
Arkansas
An emergency telephone or communication system is required on-site. Emergency numbers must be clearly displayed.
California
The emergency telephone must be readily visible and accessible at all times in the pool area.
Connecticut
The emergency communication device must be located on the premises near the pool and readily available.
Delaware
Pools must provide:
- Emergency telephone within or adjacent to the enclosure
- Posted emergency numbers
- Coin-free access required
- Alternative alarm systems may be approved if they alert responders
Georgia
Hardwired emergency telephone required with posted emergency service contact information.
Illinois
Emergency phone must be within 300 feet of pool enclosure with posted emergency numbers (911, police, fire, hospital, ambulance).
Indiana
An emergency telephone is required within 200 feet of the pool enclosure with a full emergency contact list displayed.
Iowa
A non-coin emergency communication system is required where lifeguards are not provided. Location must be clearly posted.
Kentucky
Emergency telephone is required with nearby posted emergency contact numbers.
Louisiana
An emergency telephone is required with emergency contact postings.
Maryland
Emergency phone must:
- Directly dial 911 without an operator or coin use
- Display emergency service numbers
- Include facility name and location
Massachusetts
An emergency communication system must provide immediate access to emergency services with posted instructions and contact numbers.
Michigan
An emergency phone or approved system must be located within or near the pool enclosure and accessible at all times.
Minnesota
Emergency telephone is required near the pool area with clearly posted emergency numbers.
Missouri (St. Louis County)
Emergency telephone is required within 300 feet of the pool facility with posted emergency contact information.
Nebraska
The emergency telephone must be readily accessible with posted emergency numbers.
Nevada
An emergency telephone is required near the pool enclosure. Must include posted emergency numbers or 911 access where available.
New Hampshire
An emergency communication device is required within 200 feet of water or posted signage directing users to the nearest phone.
New Jersey
An emergency communication system is required near lifeguard stations with posted emergency contact numbers.
New Mexico
The emergency telephone must be accessible at all times the pool is open.
North Carolina
An emergency telephone capable of dialing 911 is required within 300 feet of the pool.
Ohio
An Emergency telephone is required within 500 feet of the pool with posted emergency numbers.
Oklahoma
The emergency telephone must be accessible without coins and include a posted emergency contact list.
South Carolina
An emergency communication device is required within 200 feet of the pool with visible emergency signage.
Texas
An emergency telephone or system is required within 200 feet of the pool. Must directly contact emergency services. On-site answering systems do not comply.
Tennessee
An emergency telephone is required on premises with coin-free access and posted emergency numbers.
Virginia
The emergency telephone or communication area must be readily accessible at all times.
Washington
An emergency telephone is required with posted emergency medical response numbers.
West Virginia
Emergency telephone service required with posted emergency contact numbers.
Wisconsin
An emergency telephone is required for indoor and outdoor pools. Alternative systems may be approved by regulators.
Wyoming
An emergency telephone is required on premises with posted emergency rescue numbers.
Why Emergency Pool Phones Are Required
Emergency pool phones are mandated to:
- Reduce emergency response time
- Ensure immediate access to 911 services
- Improve swimmer safety
- Comply with public health and building codes
- Support lifeguard and facility response protocols
Pool Phone Compliance & Installation Guidance
When selecting a compliant emergency pool phone system, ensure it:
- Works without coins or payment
- Connects directly to emergency services
- Is weatherproof and vandal-resistant (outdoor installations)
- Has clear signage and instructions
- Meets local health department requirements
Disclaimer
Regulations may change and vary by city, county, and state. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not replace official legal or regulatory consultation.

