Manitobans renting out backyard pools unknowingly breaking provincial rules

The Province of Manitoba says private pools are considered public as soon as they're rented out, and require a permit from a health inspector as well as a lifeguard.

Private swimming pool rentals jumped in popularity during the pandemic. But some renting out their backyard swimming holes through apps like Swimply are unknowingly breaking provincial regulations — raising questions about how the company and the province are communicating rules with the public.

The province says private pools are considered public as soon as they’re rented out.

Under The Public Health Act, owners are required to get a permit from a health inspector and provide a lifeguard, among other things, just like City of Winnipeg and YMCA pools.

But the province hasn’t inspected any private pools up for rent, a spokesperson wrote in an emailed statement on Tuesday.

“A commercial pool requires washrooms, showers, lifeguarding, lighting, etc., and it is likely too costly for the residential pool owner to modify or upgrade their pool,” the statement said.

A Manitoba man who uses the Swimply app to rent out his pool said he was surprised to learn there were strict provincial guidelines.

Global News has agreed not to name the man for fear of retribution.

“I was completely unaware of this, and I run my my pool very safely here,” he said Wednesday.