Question 1

Is an emergency phone required at pools in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Maryland regulation COMAR 10.17.01.21 requires a telephone within the pool enclosure or an adjacent area.

Question 2

Does the Maryland requirement apply to HOA and apartment pools?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Maryland's pool phone requirement generally applies to any public or semi-public pool, which typically includes HOA, condo, and apartment community pools, not just commercial facilities. Confirm with your local health department if you're unsure how your specific pool is classified.

Question 3

Can a cellular emergency phone satisfy this requirement in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes — most states, including Maryland, don't require a traditional landline specifically. A dedicated cellular emergency phone that reliably dials emergency services without extra steps is typically an acceptable way to meet the requirement, particularly for pools that don't already have phone lines run to the deck.

Question 4

Who enforces this requirement in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Enforcement is usually handled by the state or local health department (or a building/safety code office) as part of routine pool inspections and licensing, sometimes with extra rules added at the county level. If you're unsure which office covers your property, your local health department is the best place to start.

Maryland Pool Emergency Phone Law

The Requirement

What This Means for Your Property

Frequently Asked Questions

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