Ontario Hotel Pool and Spa Signs

From Toronto’s bustling cityscape to the serene cottages of Muskoka, Ontario’s hospitality sector welcomes millions of visitors each year. As a hotel, motel, or resort owner, providing a safe and compliant environment is not just a best practice—it’s a legal requirement. When it comes to your aquatic facilities, the regulations are particularly specific, demanding clear and conspicuous signage to protect your guests and staff.

In Ontario, the operation of public pools and spas is governed by Ontario Regulation 565/90: Public Pools under the Health Protection and Promotion Act. This regulation outlines strict standards for safety equipment and, critically, for the notices that must be displayed. Failing to post the correct signs can result in fines and legal action from local public health units. This guide breaks down the essential signs your Ontario property needs to ensure full compliance.

Essential Signs for Your Ontario Aquatic Facility

The signage required under O. Reg. 565 serves a vital purpose: communicating critical health and safety information to every bather. Here is a list of the signs your hotel’s pool and spa facilities must have:

• Shower Rules Sign: The regulation mandates that a sign be placed at the entrance to each shower area, reminding guests to take a shower with warm water and soap before entering or re-entering the pool deck.
• Emergency Stop Button Sign: If your whirlpool or spa is equipped with a hydrojet system, a clearly labelled emergency stop button is required by law. A sign is needed to identify its location and purpose for quick, safe access.
• Unsupervised Pool Signs: Ontario has specific requirements for pools that do not have a lifeguard on duty, with distinct signs based on the pool’s size.
  • Unsupervised Pool Sign (<93m²): For smaller pools, this sign exempts you from certain supervision requirements, but it must clearly state that the pool is unsupervised and that bathers under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian who is at least 16 years old.
  • Unsupervised Pool Sign (>93m²): Larger unsupervised pools require a similar notice, but it also must include information on the maximum bather load as specified by the regulation.
• Emergency Phone Sign: A notice with the full name and address of your property and the pool's emergency telephone numbers must be displayed at the emergency phone.
• No Diving Sign: For any pool, a highly visible sign stating "CAUTION – NO DIVING" is required to prevent serious injury.
• Shallow Water No Diving Sign: For pools with a maximum depth of less than 2.5 metres, this sign is mandatory to warn against the specific and dangerous act of diving into shallow water.
• Pool Rules Sign: This sign is a cornerstone of your facility's safety. It must be posted in at least two places and includes crucial rules such as prohibiting glass containers, boisterous play, and pollution of the water.
• Spa Rules Sign: Specific caution notices are required for public spas to warn bathers of potential risks, with content covering health warnings, time limits, and supervision of minors.

Did You Know?

The Ontario Regulation 565/90 was updated as recently as January 1, 2025, to include modern practices for recreational water facilities, including new rules for cold pools and floatation tanks. This highlights the importance of staying current with provincial health regulations.

The Bottom Line on Ontario Hotel Signage

Proactive safety and compliance are paramount for any hospitality business in Ontario. By having all the correct, legally-mandated pool and spa signs, you demonstrate a commitment to your guests' safety, avoid legal penalties, and ensure your facility remains a safe and welcoming retreat. Don't leave your compliance to chance—make sure your signage is up to date.

Ready to update your signage and ensure full compliance? Browse our collection of Ontario-specific pool and spa signs.