Swimming Pools

• Ball playing, running, jumping, using bad language or other forms of disruptive and disorderly behavior are prohibited.

• Bathing suits must be worn on the deck and in the water.
  • Men’s bathing suits must have mesh linings.
  • Hats may be worn on the deck for sun protection but are not allowed in the water.
  • Plain white T-shirts may be worn over bathing suits if desired.
  • Sneakers are not allowed.
  • Rubber flip flops or water shoes are allowed.

• Beach chairs, baby strollers, bags, blankets, or beach balls are not permitted on the pool deck.

• Books and bound magazines are permitted on the pool deck. Newspapers are not permitted.

• Children under 16 must be at least 8 inches taller than the maximum water depth to enter the pool without adult supervision.
  • Specific height requirements are posted at every pool.

• Eating or drinking is allowed only in designated areas.
  • Alcoholic drinks are prohibited.

• Electronic equipment, including radios, cameras, and cellular phones, are not allowed on pool deck.

• No diving, except in designated areas.

• No smoking, pets, or glass bottles allowed.

• No urinating or defecating in the pools.

• No use of swimming aids, water toys, and flotation devices.

• You must bring your own padlock.
  • No responsibility is assumed for lost articles.
  • A standard master or combination lock is recommended.
  • Small luggage locks are not permitted.

• You must follow the directives of lifeguards, Parks staff, and the police.

• You must take a shower in the locker room before entering the pool.

• You will not be allowed in the pool if you:
  • Have skin lesions, sores, or inflamed eyes, mouth, nose, or ear discharge
  • Are carrying a communicable disease
  • Have any type of bandage or adhesive tape on your body

Learn more about pool rules.

Olympic Pools

A standard Olympic-sized pool is 50 meters long and 25 meters wide. Any City pool that is this size or larger is considered an Olympic pool.

Intermediate Pools

Intermediate pools are smaller than Olympic pools. They are usually 3 1/2 to 4 feet deep. They include all City pools that do not fit into the other categories.

Mini-Pools

Mini-pools are 40 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 3 to 3 1/4 feet deep. These pools are usually located in playgrounds. They are meant to be used by children age 16 and under.

Wading Pools

Wading pools are not stand-alone facilities. They are located next to either an Olympic or Intermediate pool. They vary in size but are usually not more than 2 feet deep.

Floating Pool

The Floating Pool is a seven-lane pool on a barge.

Public outdoor pools are open to everyone at no cost.

Public indoor pools are in recreation centers. You need to be a member of the recreation center to use the pool.

Registration for Summer Camps has ended.

Summer Camps that want access to the City pools require a Camp/Pool Permit. Permit applications can be obtained by calling the individual Borough Permit Office:

• Bronx: (718) 430-1847
• Brooklyn: (718) 965-8942
• Manhattan: (212) 408-0243
• Queens: (718) 393-7370
• Staten Island:(718) 816-6172

Camps are also required to bring their own lifeguards (1 for every 25 children), as mandated by the State.