Aquatic Facility Licence
The Aquatic Facility Licence is required by the National Environment Agency (NEA) for any business operating an aquatic facility in Singapore. The licence is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years, with processing typically taking 30 working days.
- Validity
- Valid for three years. The licence is to be renewed once every 3 years
- Processing time
- 30 working days
- Issuing authority
- NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AGENCY (NEA)
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Who needs the Aquatic Facility Licence
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
What's involved in getting the Aquatic Facility Licence
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Aquatic Facility Licence permits a business to operate an aquatic facility in Singapore, which may include swimming pools, water parks, or other water-based recreational areas. This licence ensures that the facility meets health and safety standards to protect public health.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be granted, several conditions must be met. These include obtaining a BCA Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) and/or approval for any addition and alteration work. Additionally, planning approval from the relevant agency may be required for changes in use or modifications to the facility. A schematic diagram detailing the water circulation, filtration, disinfection systems, and pH control must also be prepared and endorsed by a professional engineer or qualified person. Furthermore, a clear and scaled layout plan of the premises, along with a catalogue of the pumps and filters used, is necessary.
How the agency reviews and decides
The NEA reviews the application by assessing the submitted documentation, including the schematic diagrams and layout plans. The agency may conduct inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. The thoroughness of the review process is essential to ensure that the aquatic facility operates safely and effectively.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Aquatic Facility Licence can stall for various reasons. Common issues include incomplete documentation, such as missing schematic diagrams or layout plans. Additionally, discrepancies between the proposed facility's use and the approvals obtained can lead to delays. Ensuring that all required approvals and documentation are in place before submission can help mitigate these risks.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- New aquatic facility licence
- You are required to furnish the following documents to NEA when submitting a new licence application for an aquatic facility:
- BCA Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) and/or Approval for Addition and Alteration Work
- Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) and/or approval for addition and alteration work to be carried out
- Planning approval from relevant agency for change of use and/or addition and alteration work (if applicable)
- Planning approval from relevant agency for change of use and/or addition and alteration work (if applicable)
- Aquatic Facility Format for each Aquatic Facility
- Aquatic facility format for each aquatic facility endorsed by professional engineer or qualified person
- Schematic Diagram of Aquatic Facility
- Schematic Diagram of aquatic facility consisting of
- i. Water circulation (includes overflow perimeter drain or skimmers, flow meters).
- ii. Filtration (sampling taps at the inlet and outlet pipes of the filter)
- iii.Disinfection systems
- iv. The device shall not allow the back flow of water in aquatic facility into the disinfectant container.
- v. pH control
- vi. Heating (optional)
- Layout Plan
- A clear and scaled layout plan of the premises showing the details of sanitary, drainage and washing facilities etc.
- Pumps and filters catalogue
- Characteristics of the pumps and filters used for the aquatic facility
Aquatic Facility Licence FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, the Aquatic Facility Licence is mandatory for any business intending to operate an aquatic facility in Singapore. Without this licence, the facility cannot legally operate.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your business can legally operate an aquatic facility, which may include swimming pools, water parks, or similar establishments, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating an aquatic facility without the necessary licence can result in penalties, including fines and closure of the facility. It is crucial to obtain the licence to avoid legal repercussions.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
Obtaining the Aquatic Facility Licence is a separate process from incorporating your company. It is advisable to secure the licence after incorporation to ensure that your business is compliant with local regulations before commencing operations.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection is incomplete documentation. Ensuring that all required approvals, schematic diagrams, and layout plans are thoroughly prepared and submitted can help prevent this issue.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, a foreign-owned company can hold the Aquatic Facility Licence in Singapore, provided it meets all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the National Environment Agency.
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Other NEA licences
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