Hamilton’s outdoor pools open next week. Here’s what you need to know before you go

Some of Hamilton’s outdoor pools and wading pools are set to open next week, but there are a few things you need to know before you head out for a swim.

Most City of Hamilton outdoor pools will reopen to the public on Monday (June 28), with the exception of the Inch Park pool, which will open on July 5.

The wading pool at Dundas Driving park will also open on Monday but all the other wading pools will reopen on July 5.

Parkdale Outdoor Pool, Andy Warburton Memorial Wading Pool and Kinsmen Park Wading Pool will not reopen this summer due to maintenance/construction.

Hamilton is home to 10 outdoor pools and seven wading pools, most of which have remained open during the pandemic with restrictions in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and this summer will see things done a little differently than in pre-COVID times.

Pre-registration is required for all drop-in programming at least 25 hours in advance. Registration can be done online using the City’s program finder tool on its website.

For wading pools, capacity limits are in place in accordance with provincial COVID-19 guidelines and if the wading pool is full, staff will ask new participants to line up. The pool will then be cleared regularly to allow new participants to access the pool.

During extended heat warnings, most of Hamilton’s wading pools, with the exception of Dundas Driving Park, will be closed.

Wading pools will remain open until August 29, though most will be closed on holidays, with the exception of Dundas Driving Park.

Visitors to Hamilton’s pools will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms and possible exposures upon entry and masks will be required in all common areas, including pool decks and change rooms.

The City’s most up-to-date policies, procedures and pool rules can be found here.

For more information on Hamilton’s outdoor pools and wading pools and their locations, visit the City’s website.