Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Alabama does not have specific state-level, codified regulations for commercial float tank centers, making it crucial to work directly with local county health departments for approval. Regulations often fall under existing rules for public pools, spas, or personal service salons, requiring adherence to sanitation and water quality standards.

Float-specific state regulation

State framework + local enforcement

Float tank operations in Alaska are regulated under the Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) Title 18, Environmental Conservation, specifically section 18 AAC 30.576, which pertains to public swimming pools and spas. These regulations require that floatation tanks meet specific sanitation, safety, and water quality standards, often requiring daily logs and approval from local health departments.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Float tank regulations in Arizona are not standardized statewide, leaving oversight largely to local county health departments, which often classify them similarly to public spas or swimming pools. They are typically regulated under the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) or local county health department codes for Public and Semipublic Swimming Pools and Spas.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

In Arkansas, float tanks (also known as sensory deprivation tanks) are generally regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). Because float tanks are a niche industry, they often fall under the broader category of public swimming pools and spas, though specific interpretations can vary by county or city health department.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

California does not have a single, uniform state regulation for commercial float tanks (flotation therapy), but they are regulated locally by county health departments, often under rules similar to public spas or swimming pools. Most California health departments apply standards derived from California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Chapter 31B, which governs public pools and spas.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Float tank (sensory deprivation) regulations in Colorado are primarily managed at the local level by county or city health departments, rather than under a single, specific state code. It is essential to contact local Colorado health inspectors to get the exact requirements for a floatation tank, as requirements for installation and daily operation can vary by location.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Connecticut does not have specific state-level, codified regulations exclusively for commercial float tanks, often requiring operators to work with local health departments for approval. Therefore, approval and audits are handled at the city or county level, not by a single state agency.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Delaware does not have specific, statewide, codified regulations exclusively for commercial float tanks. Instead, they are generally regulated by local county health departments under guidelines similar to spas, hot tubs, or personal service establishments.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Float tanks in Florida are generally regulated by local county health departments, which often classify them under strict public swimming pool and spa codes (FAC Chapter 64E-9). Because standard pool rules (e.g., continuous filtration, specific depths) often conflict with float tank operation, operators usually must obtain a variance to allow for specific sanitation and operating procedures.

Primarily local regulation

State framework + local enforcement

Float tanks in Georgia are typically regulated by local county health departments rather than a specific state-wide code. When jurisdictions lack specific local codes, they often defer to state classifications as "Public Spas" (specialty pools) following Rules and Regulations for Public Swimming Pools, Spas, and Recreational Water Parks (Georgia Department of Public Health Chapter 511-3-5).

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Hawaii does not currently have specific, statewide, codified regulations exclusively for commercial float tanks (sensory deprivation tanks). Operations generally fall under local health department oversight, often treated as public spas, requiring approval for water quality, sanitation, and safety.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Idaho’s statewide public swimming pool regulations (IDAPA 16.02.14) were revoked effective July 1, 2025. No current statewide regulation specifically governing commercial float tanks was identified. Operators should contact the public health district and applicable local authorities for their location to confirm current requirements.

Exempt from state pool/spa code

County / city / local jurisdiction

Float tank regulations in Illinois are not explicitly standardized statewide, leaving oversight to local health departments which may classify them under existing pool, spa, or personal service codes. Operators typically must comply with sanitation, water quality, and structural standards, often requiring health department approval, regular inspections, and potential variances for filtration requirements.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Indiana does not have specific state-level, codified regulations exclusively for commercial float tanks (sensory deprivation tanks). However the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH): IDOH oversees the Public Swimming Pool and Spa Program, which administers state rule 410 IAC 6-2.1 for public and semi-public pools and spas.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Iowa does not have specific statewide regulations for float tanks, which are generally regulated at the local city or county level. They are often classified under existing pool, spa, or public health codes, sometimes requiring special "variances" to accommodate their unique operation.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Kansas does not have statewide regulations governing the construction, operation, filtration, or disinfection of public recreational water facilities. Some cities and counties establish and enforce local ordinances, so requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Operators should confirm requirements with their local health department.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Kentucky does not have specific, statewide regulations exclusively for float tanks, as they are not explicitly classified under Kentucky Administrative Regulations. They are typically regulated under the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) as "public swimming and bathing facilities".

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Louisiana does not appear to have a float-specific statewide regulation. Public swimming and bathing facilities are governed under Louisiana’s Public Health–Sanitary Code, with requirements interpreted and enforced through state and local public health authorities. Operators should confirm how float tanks are classified with their parish health unit.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Float tank (sensory deprivation) regulations in Maine are not explicitly defined at the state level but are typically managed by local health departments, which often classify them under public pool or spa codes. Operators may need to apply for a variance to adapt standard pool rules to the specific requirements of float tanks.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Maryland does not have a single, unified state-wide regulation specifically for commercial float tanks (sensory deprivation tanks). Instead, they are generally regulated by local county health departments, which often classify them under existing pool/spa codes, requiring health department approval, strict sanitation protocols (filtration, UV/ozone), and sometimes, annual audits.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Float tank regulations in Massachusetts are not uniformly standardized at the state level, often leaving oversight to local boards of health, which may classify them as spas, public pools, or, in some cases, remain unregulated. Operators must generally comply with local sanitation standards, often adopting industry best practices like UV/hydrogen peroxide filtration and high salt concentration to maintain safety.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Michigan regulates public swimming pools under Part 125 of the Public Health Code and related administrative rules. Float tanks may be evaluated under this framework depending on their classification. EGLE oversees permitting and licensing, while local health departments conduct inspections and may have additional requirements.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Minnesota does not have specific statewide, dedicated health regulations for commercial float tanks (sensory deprivation tanks). Instead, they are generally regulated by local health departments, often classified under existing, broader codes for pools, spas, or, in some cases, personal service settings.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Mississippi does not regulate public swimming pools or spas at the state level, and the Mississippi State Department of Health states that no state pool or spa permits are required. Its published pool and spa guidelines are recommendations only. Float center operators should confirm whether any county, municipal, building, or other local requirements apply to their location.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Missouri does not have a specific statewide regulation identified for commercial float tanks. Requirements may be determined by local city or county authorities, and classification can vary by jurisdiction. Operators should contact their local public health agency to confirm applicable health, building, permitting, or aquatic-facility requirements.

Float-specific state regulation

State framework + local enforcement

Montana specifically defines float tanks in its public swimming pool rules. Float tanks designed and operated for individual use in accordance with the North American Float Tank Standard Version 2 are classified as medicinal hot water baths and are excluded from the definition of a public swimming pool. Operators should review the Montana DPHHS float tank guidance and confirm any applicable local environmental health, building, or permitting requirements.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Nebraska does not have a statewide regulation specifically addressing float tanks. Nebraska’s Public Swimming Pool Standards establish statewide requirements for public swimming pools, including special purpose pools, while operating permits and operational inspections are handled by local authorities. Because the current rules do not specifically identify float tanks, operators should confirm classification and applicable requirements with Nebraska DWEE and their local inspection authority.

Float-specific state regulation

State framework + local enforcement

Nevada specifically regulates isolation and flotation tanks as public bathing or swimming facilities under NAC Chapter 444. State regulations include float-specific requirements for filtration, disinfection, turnover, solution temperature, and ventilation. Operators should also confirm permitting and inspection requirements with the health authority serving their jurisdiction.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

New Hampshire regulates public bathing facilities under Env-Wq 1100, which applies to facilities used for recreational or therapeutic bathing. Public bathing facilities operated as part of a business must receive design approval from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and be registered with the state. Because the regulations do not specifically identify float tanks, operators should confirm how their facility will be classified and what requirements apply with NHDES.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

New Jersey regulates public recreational bathing facilities under N.J.A.C. 8:26, which includes swimming pools, spas, and special purpose pools. The regulations do not specifically identify float tanks, so operators should confirm classification and applicable requirements with the New Jersey Department of Health and their local health authority.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

In New Mexico, float tanks are typically regulated by the New Mexico Environment Department under public swimming pool and spa codes. While the state does not have a dedicated, standalone statute exclusively for floatation therapy, operators must comply with local health and sanitation codes adapted from the MAHC, such as the New Mexico Swimming Pool Rules (7.18.2 NMAC).

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

New York State does not specifically address float tanks in its public swimming pool regulations. State regulations establish requirements for swimming pools and spa pools, with permitting and enforcement handled by local health departments. New York City specifically excludes one-person float or relaxation tanks from the Building Code definition of a swimming pool and recognizes isolation flotation tanks as therapeutic or relaxation service establishments. Operators should confirm applicable health, building, and local requirements with the authority serving their jurisdiction.

Float-specific state regulation

State framework + local enforcement

North Carolina specifically classifies float tanks as “Special Purpose and Therapy Pools” under 15A NCAC 18A .2544. Float tanks must generally comply with the state’s public swimming pool and spa requirements, with specific exceptions for deck space, canopy/ceiling height, lighting, recirculation, certain pump standards, and temperature signage.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

North Dakota regulates pool facilities under NDAC Chapter 33-29-01, which includes public, semipublic, special-use pools and spas. The statewide code does not specifically identify float tanks, so classification and additional requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Local public health units may conduct aquatic-facility plan reviews, inspections, and licensing and may impose requirements beyond the state code.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Ohio regulates public swimming pools, spas, and special-use pools under statewide public health laws and regulations. The rules do not specifically identify float tanks, so operators should confirm how a float tank will be classified and what requirements apply with the Ohio Department of Health and the local health district serving their location.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Oklahoma has statewide regulations for public pools and spas, but no statewide regulation specifically addressing commercial float tanks has been identified. Because the applicability of the state pool and spa code to float tanks is unclear, operators should confirm classification and requirements with the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the appropriate local health authority.

Exempt from state pool/spa code

County / city / local jurisdiction

Oregon’s current aquatic facility rules explicitly exclude flotation tanks from the definition of an “aquatic venue.” As a result, the state’s public pool and spa design, licensing, and operational requirements do not apply to flotation tanks under OAR 333-060 and 333-062. Operators should confirm whether other state or local building, plumbing, business, or public health requirements apply to their facility.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Pennsylvania regulates public swimming and bathing places under Title 28, Chapter 18. The statewide rules cover public bathing places broadly, but do not specifically identify float tanks. Operators should confirm how a float tank is classified and what permitting or inspection requirements apply with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the appropriate local health authority.

Float-specific state regulation

State framework + local enforcement

Rhode Island regulates floatation tanks as licensed aquatic venues through the Rhode Island Department of Health. Licensed venues must comply with 216-RICR-50-05-4, renew their license annually, and complete an Annual Self-Inspection Checklist. New construction or alterations to licensed aquatic venues are also subject to RIDOH design review and approval requirements.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

South Carolina regulates public swimming pools and spas under Regulation 61-51. The statewide rules do not specifically identify float tanks, so operators should confirm how a float tank is classified and what permitting requirements apply with the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

South Dakota does not have a statewide regulation specifically addressing commercial float tanks. State regulations address swimming pools, spas, and other water recreation facilities in certain regulated settings, but no statewide classification for standalone float centers was identified. Operators should contact the South Dakota Department of Health and applicable local authorities to confirm requirements for their facility.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Tennessee does not have a statewide regulation specifically addressing commercial float tanks. Tennessee maintains statewide regulations for public swimming pools and spas, but those rules do not specifically identify float tanks. Operators should contact the Tennessee Department of Health and their local Environmental Health office to confirm how a float tank is classified and what requirements apply.

Exempt from state pool/spa code

County / city / local jurisdiction

Texas explicitly excludes floatation systems from the state’s public swimming pool and spa regulations. Texas Administrative Code defines a floatation system as a float solution vessel and treatment system used for immersion and floatation and states that it is not considered a pool or spa under these rules. Operators should confirm any applicable local health, building, business, or permitting requirements with the authorities serving their location.

Exempt from state pool/spa code

County / city / local jurisdiction

Utah explicitly exempts float tanks from the state’s public swimming pool regulations under Rule R392-302. Because the statewide pool rule does not apply to float tanks, operators should contact the local health department and other applicable local authorities serving their location to confirm any health, building, plumbing, business, or permitting requirements.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Vermont does not have statewide regulations specifically governing commercial float tanks, and the state does not generally regulate the maintenance and testing of public swimming pools outside licensed lodging establishments. Local requirements may apply, so operators should confirm applicable health, building, business, or other requirements with their municipality and local health officials.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Virginia does not currently have regulations specifically addressing commercial float tanks. State law establishes a regulatory framework for public swimming pools and other public aquatic facilities, and the Virginia Department of Health is developing updated statewide regulations following changes enacted in 2026. Operators should confirm how float tanks are classified and what current requirements apply with VDH and the local health department serving their location.

Float-specific state regulation

State framework + local enforcement

Washington specifically regulates floatation systems as special use pools under Chapter 246-260 WAC. Public float tank facilities are subject to plan review and construction permitting, and operators must maintain a current operating permit that is renewed annually. Permitting and oversight are handled by the Washington State Department of Health or the applicable local health authority, depending on the jurisdiction.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

Municipal / D.C. Department of Health

Washington, D.C. regulates swimming pools, spas, and other aquatic facilities under Title 25-C of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations. The regulations do not specifically identify commercial float tanks, so operators should confirm how a float tank is classified and what inspection or licensing requirements apply with DC Health’s Division of Community Hygiene.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

West Virginia regulates recreational water facilities under 64 CSR 16, including public swimming and bathing facilities such as pools, spas, therapeutic pools, and hydrotherapy pools. The statewide rule does not specifically identify float tanks, so operators should confirm how their facility is classified and what permitting or inspection requirements apply with the West Virginia Department of Health and their local health department.

Primarily local regulation

County / city / local jurisdiction

Wisconsin does not have a statewide regulation specifically addressing commercial float tanks. Current public swimming pool rules exclude individual therapeutic pods, tubs, and baths from the definition of a public pool, but do not specifically identify float tanks. Operators should confirm how their facility is classified and what state or local requirements apply with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, Department of Safety and Professional Services, and the applicable local authority.

Pool / spa / aquatic code

State framework + local enforcement

Wyoming specifically defines flotation tanks within its statewide regulations for swimming pools, spas, and similar installations. The regulations establish operational and water-quality requirements applicable to flotation tanks, and the Wyoming Department of Agriculture oversees licensing and inspections of regulated aquatic facilities.