Follow the Rules When Draining Your Pools

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Summary

Please be advised that discharging pool water into LWDD canals is strictly prohibited.

 

Dear Property Managers, HOA Boards and Homeowners,

We hope this letter finds you well. The Lake Worth Drainage District (LWDD) occasionally receives questions and complaints regarding the proper procedures for draining swimming pools.

Please be advised that discharging pool water into LWDD canals is strictly prohibited for several important reasons, including:

  • Releasing pool chemicals into the canal can negatively impact water quality.
  • Large volumes of water discharged at a single location can cause canal bank erosion (washouts), which are time-consuming and costly to repair.

Local municipal regulations and/or permits apply when draining a swimming pool. Coordinating with your municipality and/or homeowners’ association is essential to ensure approved practices are being followed before beginning any work.

Once all required approvals have been obtained, please keep the following best practices in mind when draining a pool:

  • Dechlorinate the water by allowing the pool to sit for at least one week without adding chlorine, or ensure chlorine levels are reduced to zero.
  • Confirm that the pH level is between approximately 6.5 and 7.8 prior to draining.
  • Drain the water slowly by controlling the discharge rate.
  • Disperse the flow over a wide area to help prevent erosion.
  • Use a silt fence or similar barrier to capture sediment.
  • Comply with all applicable local laws and regulations.

The purpose of this outreach is to promote awareness and prevent potential negative impacts. We respectfully ask property managers and HOA representatives to remind residents to follow the rules when draining swimming pools.

Thank you for your time and cooperation in helping protect our shared water resources.

Sincerely,

The Lake Worth Drainage District