Beaches, pools and other water
Beach water
Peel Public Health takes water samples to check that the water quality is acceptable for swimming. We monitor the water quality at 4 public beaches. Signs are posted when the water is unsafe for swimming.
High levels of bacteria in beach water can make you sick with diarrhea, skin rashes, ear pain, cough or congestion, or eye pain. The beach water may have unsafe levels of bacteria due to heavy rainfall, large numbers of water birds, high winds or wave activity, or large numbers of swimmers.
Beach testing results 2026
Beach testing in Peel region begins in June and continues until the end of the swimming season. Tests are conducted Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.
Signs posted at beaches
Blue notice
A blue notice sign at the beach means that the sample result shows the bacterial levels to be within acceptable limits and the beach's status is "Open".
Blue signs on the beach also warn swimmers not to swim for 2 days after a heavy rainfall. Bacteria can increase after heavy rainfalls and be harmful.
Red warning
A red warning sign at the beach means that levels of bacteria in the water are high enough to pose a risk to your health. This is a warning that swimming in the water may cause illness. The beach's status is "Advisory".
Water quality advisory
A water quality advisory sign at the beach means that a blue-green algae bloom has been observed in the lake water. Do not drink the lake water, avoid recreational use, do not allow pets in the water. If you come in contact with algae, rinse off with fresh water. Learn about blue-green algae.
View water quality advisory sign
Sewer overflow
Signs posted close to sewage overflow locations provide awareness about possible sewage overflows and potential health risks.
Pools, spas and splash pads
Injuries and the spread of illness can be a concern when using public pools, spas (hot tubs), splash pads, and wading pools. To help you stay healthy, Peel Public Health monitors these facilities.
Public Health Inspectors take samples to check that the water is acceptable quality for swimming and that there are no hazards that could cause injuries.