Gardner Pool Rules and Policies
Closing Policy
- Gardner Pool may close early due to inclement weather, low attendance, or other safety concerns. No refunds will be issued for early closures.
- The pool will close if the air temperature is 66°F or below.
- Closures may also occur due to fecal incidents or at the discretion of the pool manager.
- Please check your email for operational updates on days with uncertain weather.
General Rules
- Walk at all times—running is not permitted.
- Prolonged breath-holding and underwater swimming are not allowed.
- Firearms, weapons, and dangerous ordnances are prohibited.
- Alcohol, tobacco, and e-cigarette use are not permitted on pool property.
- Diving from the sides of the main pool is prohibited.
- Toys are allowed only in the shallow “zoo” area.
- Only U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation devices may be used in the zoo area and main pool.
- Baby floats are permitted only in the main pool during rest breaks.
- Lap lanes are reserved for swimmers 18 and older. Kickboards may only be used in lap lanes.
- Street clothes are not permitted in the pool.
- Bikes, skateboards, scooters, and rollerblades are not allowed in the pool area. Bike racks are located in Shafor Park.
- Glass containers are strictly prohibited.
- Rest breaks occur 15 minutes before each hour. During this time, only individuals 18 and older may be in the water. Children age 5 and under may remain in the water if directly accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Inflatables, balls, horseplay, and throwing or lifting children are not permitted.
- All toddlers must wear swim diapers and/or plastic pants.
- Guests are expected to behave respectfully at all times.
- Children must be at least 12 years old to attend the pool without a parent or guardian.
Diving Area Rules
- One person on the diving board at a time.
- Walk out; no running, hanging on rails, or multiple bounces.
- Back and inward dives are not allowed.
- Masks, goggles, lifejackets, and flotation devices are not allowed on the boards.
- No swimming in the diving well while boards are in use.
- Parents may not be in the water to assist or “catch” children.
- Lifeguards may administer a swim test before allowing diving board use.
- Always dive straight off the end of the board and swim to the nearest ladder immediately after entry.
Baby Pool Rules
- No lifeguard is stationed at the baby pool.
- Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
- Reserved for children 5 and under only.
- All toddlers and non-toilet trained swimmers are required to wear swim diapers and/or plastic pants while in the pool.
- Inflatables and floating devices are not permitted.
- Closed during home swim meets.
Lap Lane Guidelines
- Limit swim time to 30 minutes if others are waiting.
- Ask before entering an occupied lane; circle swim when possible.
- Permitted equipment: goggles, kickboards, pull buoys, paddles, and fins.
Rest Periods
- Rest periods are held 15 minutes before each hour. During this time:
- Adults 18 and older may remain in the water.
- Children age 5 and under may enter with a parent on a one-to-one basis.
Disclaimer and Enforcement Policy
- All guests must follow Gardner Pool rules and policies. The City reserves the right to suspend or revoke pool privileges for any violation.
- Suspended or revoked memberships will not be refunded.
- Parents are responsible for their children's behavior.
- A family membership may be suspended or revoked if appropriate supervision is not provided.
- Suspension or revocation decisions may be reviewed by the City Manager or their designee. This decision will be final.
- By using Gardner Pool or purchasing a membership, you agree to follow all posted rules and understand the City’s enforcement rights.