CPO certification by state
CPO Certification in Texas
Texas requires Class A, B and C pools, which are public and semi-public pools including hotels, apartments and HOAs, to have a certified operator, and accepts AFO, CPO, LAFT or a locally approved equivalent.
Who sets the rules
The state rule, 25 TAC 265, enforced by cities and counties. Houston began enforcing it on February 1, 2024.
What the rules say
- The operator doesn't have to be on site, but staff at the pool must have their contact information.
- The rule covers hotels, apartments and HOA pools.
Running a pool service business
- We found no state licence for pool cleaning.
- Electrical work on pool equipment needs a licensed electrician or a TDLR residential appliance installer licence.
Getting certified in Texas
CPO classes run in person, as a blended online course with a shorter in-person day, and in formats that keep the exam proctored. The CPO certification guide explains the formats, typical costs and renewal, and how to find a class near you.
Questions
- Does Texas require a certified pool operator?
- Texas requires Class A, B and C pools, which are public and semi-public pools including hotels, apartments and HOAs, to have a certified operator, and accepts AFO, CPO, LAFT or a locally approved equivalent. The state rule, 25 TAC 265, enforced by cities and counties. Houston began enforcing it on February 1, 2024.
- Do you need a licence to run a pool service business in Texas?
- We found no state licence for pool cleaning. Electrical work on pool equipment needs a licensed electrician or a TDLR residential appliance installer licence. Cities enforce the rule and some add their own requirements, so check with your city's health department. Austin's requirements weren't confirmed.
For pool service companies
Readings, Doses and Service History From Every Stop
Pool Runs gives every technician a mobile app that logs the readings, works out the doses for each pool, and keeps the service history, even offline in a backyard with no signal.