West Virginia Hotel Pool, Spa, & Human Trafficking

In the beautiful Mountain State, where scenic vistas and outdoor adventures define the guest experience, ensuring a safe environment is paramount for any hotel or resort owner. From the tranquility of a hotel spa to a refreshing dip in the pool, safety and guest well-being are the top priorities. But beyond hospitality, West Virginia law has clear and mandatory requirements for public and commercial signage that every hotel must follow to protect its visitors and staff.

This guide breaks down the essential signs your property needs to stay in full compliance with state law, covering both your aquatic facilities and a critical new mandate for human trafficking awareness. Failing to post the correct signs can lead to legal action, fines, and—most importantly—put your guests at risk.

West Virginia Pool & Spa Signs: The Law

The safety of public pools and spas in West Virginia is regulated by W. Va. Code R. § 64-16-10, which outlines specific safety and equipment requirements. While the use of lifeguards is recommended but not mandatory for hotels, every facility must have clear safety signs posted to meet its legal obligations and reduce liability.

Here are the signs your West Virginia hotel needs to comply with the law:

• ISPSC Spa and Hot Tub Alarm Sign: This sign is a critical safety component, indicating the location of an alarm or device that notifies staff of an emergency in the hot tub or spa area.
• ISPSC Pool Emergency Phone Sign: The state code requires that a telephone be available within 100 feet of the pool and that emergency numbers be posted. This sign clearly marks the location of the emergency phone, which is a key part of your facility’s safety plan.
• ISPSC No Diving Sign for Pools: This sign serves as a vital warning against the dangerous act of diving. By clearly posting this notice in areas of concern, you protect guests from serious head and neck injuries and mitigate premises liability risk.
• ISPSC Spa Rules Sign: To ensure a safe experience for all bathers, this sign clearly lists rules and warnings specific to hot tub and spa use, from time limits to health-related cautions.
• West Virginia Pool Rules Sign: This sign is mandatory and must outline the specific rules of conduct for your pool, including hygiene standards and prohibitions on dangerous behavior, as required by state code.

Mandatory Human Trafficking Notice

Beyond recreational safety, West Virginia has taken a strong stance against human trafficking, mandating that hotels and other lodging establishments post a specific notice. Under Senate Bill 472, which came into effect on January 1, 2025, hotels must display a Human Trafficking Help Notice in a public location that is accessible to employees and the public. This law is serious, with penalties for non-compliance starting at a $2,000 per-day fine.

This sign serves as a critical lifeline for victims and a tool for employees and guests to report suspicious activity to authorities. The law is very specific about the sign’s size and content, making it essential to have a professionally designed, compliant notice.

Did You Know?

In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received 66 signals from West Virginia, leading to the identification of 38 human trafficking cases in the state. Posting a compliant notice is a critical step in helping victims and combating this crime.

The Bottom Line on West Virginia Signage

From the pool deck to the lobby, having the right signage is a legal and ethical necessity for every hotel owner in West Virginia. By ensuring your property is equipped with the correct, legally-mandated signs for pool safety and human trafficking awareness, you are protecting both your business and the safety of your community and guests.

Ready to update your signage and ensure full compliance? Browse our collection of West Virginia-specific pool, spa, and human trafficking signs.