The Cypriot government officially announced amendments to the Law on the Regulation of Public Swimming Pools Serving Several Residential Units. This decision was made in response to longstanding complaints from owners and managers of residential complexes who found it either technically impossible or financially unfeasible to comply with the previous requirements.
Previously, such pools were classified as public even if only two families used them. This automatically entailed the obligation to obtain special permits, hire lifeguards, install showers and toilets, and comply with standards similar to those required for hotel or sports pools.
Why was reform needed?
According to the Cyprus Ministry of the Interior, Cyprus has experienced a construction boom in recent years, especially in resort areas. More and more residential complexes, villas, and apartments are being built with shared pools. However, the existing regulatory framework had not been adapted to the realities of modern residential projects.
Old laws restricted the options available to homeowners and management companies, and many private complexes were unable to legalize their pools due to excessive requirements.
The new classification of pools
Under the reform, all pools are divided into three main categories, each with clearly defined rules and degrees of responsibility.
- Category 1 includes high-risk public pools, such as water parks and Olympic pools, as well as other facilities used for competitions and events with large attendance. These pools must comply with strict safety, hygiene, and operational standards.
- Category 2 includes pools that are part of a business's core activities, such as those in hotels, guest houses, and tourist facilities. They are subject to licensing and sanitary requirements but not additional bureaucratic procedures.
- Category 3 pools serve no more than five residential units or are located in self-catering units. This category will undergo the greatest simplification. Such pools will be exempt from obtaining an operating permit and from having a lifeguard on duty. Inspections will only be carried out on a selective basis as part of health service checks.
Who is now responsible for permits?
The new structure redistributes responsibilities among authorities. Licenses for the construction and operation of swimming pools will be issued by the municipality in which the facility is located. If the pool is outside the municipal area, the district administration will be responsible for licensing.
For the first time, the concepts of constructing and operating a swimming pool are clearly distinguished and will be regulated as separate legal actions. In the coming months, the government plans to introduce a new legal system that will be integrated into urban planning and zoning laws.
What will this mean for homeowners?
The new changes will bring long-awaited relief to thousands of property owners and management companies across Cyprus. Owners of townhouses, apartments, and villas with shared swimming pools will no longer be required to comply with excessive public standards. These changes improve the accessibility of such properties, reduce maintenance costs, and pave the way for the legalization of previously "problematic" pools. The new regulations will also positively impact the real estate market by making properties with pools more appealing to buyers and renters.
Reforming pool regulations in Cyprus is an important step toward modernizing the legal framework and adapting it to contemporary living conditions. Simplicity, flexibility, and reasonable regulation will accompany property owners at all stages, from construction to everyday operation.
If you are planning to purchase a property in Cyprus with a pool or manage a residential complex, stay informed about legislative updates. New regulations are expected to be introduced soon that will further simplify the process.