Commercial · Safety
VGBA 2017 Drain Cover Upgrades
Suction outlet and drain cover upgrades for public pools and spas, with the Southern Nevada Health District paperwork handled by our A-10 licensed team.
- StandardANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017
- PermitsSNHD SOFA
- LicenseA-10 #75244
The law
What VGBA requires
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act applies to public pools and spas, including hotels, motels and apartment complexes.
- Compliant coversPublic pools and spas must have compliant anti-entrapment drain covers (CPSC).
- Covers expireCPSC recommends replacing covers past the expiration date on the cover.
- Single main drainsA single blockable drain needs a second anti-entrapment system.
- CertifiedCovers are certified by the manufacturer to the standard.
Source: CPSC: Pool and Spa Drain Covers and CPSC's 2024 VGBA compliance reminder letter.
In Southern Nevada
What the Health District requires
From SNHD's Suction Outlet Fitting Assemblies (SOFA) guidance.
| Question | What SNHD says |
|---|---|
| Does replacing VGB 2008 covers with VGBA 2017 covers need a remodel? | In most cases, yes. This includes replasters, broken covers and covers past their life expectancy. |
| Who can apply? | An appropriately licensed Nevada pool contractor, using the Non-substantial Alteration application. |
| Inspection | Inspections are required to confirm the replacement cover is right for the system. |
| Pool closures | No aquatic venue may operate after remodel work has started until written approval is granted. |
| After approval | Once approved 2017 covers are installed, a broken cover replaced with the same model doesn't need a new remodel application. |
Recent VGBA work
Real suction outlet upgrades
How it works
Survey, permit, install, inspect
System survey
We check the existing outlets, plumbing and flow, which sets the cover rating.
SNHD application
SOFA worksheet and alteration application filed.
Install & inspect
Covers installed after written approval, then inspected.
Do our drain covers expire?
Yes. Drain covers have a manufacturer-recommended lifespan marked on the cover, and CPSC recommends replacing covers past that date.
Does replacing drain covers need a permit in Southern Nevada?
In most cases, replacing VGB 2008 covers with VGBA 2017 covers requires a non-substantial alteration through SNHD, plus an inspection.
Can you tell us which cover we need?
We review the existing system first. SNHD notes the right flow rating can't be set without that review.
Free assessment
Get your drains up to standard
Call or email us to review your suction outlets and drain covers.
702-856-0840Request a Free Estimate