Practical information
Pool diving
Pool diving is a safe and regulated way to practise scuba diving throughout Quebec. Whether you’re a facility manager or a diver looking for a pool, you’ll find all the information you need right here.
Did you know…
According to the Public Bathing Act:
“The pool’s owner is, however, exempted from the supervision stipulated by this section when the pool is used exclusively for water diving courses under the direct supervision of an instructor who holds a certificate recognized by the Fédération québécoise des activités subaquatiques [now named Québec Subaquatique].”
You’ll find it in Article 26 of the following link: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/rc/B-1.1,%20r.%2011?langCont=en
What does it mean?
Regular supervision is not required when the pool is used exclusively for scuba diving courses, provided these courses are conducted under the direct supervision of a qualified instructor recognized by Québec Subaquatique.
Why isn’t lifeguard supervision required?
Lifeguard rescue techniques for general swimming do not apply to scuba diving:
- Lifeguards are not trained to assist divers wearing full gear (tank, regulator, weight belt).
- In case of an incident, bringing a distressed diver to the surface requires specialized techniques to manage equipment, buoyancy, and the specific risks of diving.
- Diving instructors receive targeted training to prevent underwater incidents and intervene safely, following adapted protocols.
- This is why the law states that supervision must be provided by a qualified instructor — not a lifeguard, who is not certified for this type of activity.
There is also a specific regulation on recreational scuba diving qualifications in Quebec:: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/rc/s-3.1,%20r.%208?langCont=en
Why make your facilities available for scuba diving?
- Diversify your facility’s offerings
- Generate additional revenue without hiring extra staff
- Welcome a respectful and committed community
- Make use of underutilized time slots
- Offer a safe activity supervised by certified instructors
- Build lasting relationships with local partners
Who are the instructors?
Mandated instructors are certified professionals authorized to teach recreational scuba diving and issue qualification certificates recognized by the Government of Quebec.
To be recognized, an instructor must:
- Hold a valid Teaching Qualification Certificate in Recreational Scuba Diving;
- Hold a current scuba diving instructor certification issued by an organization recognized by Québec Subaquatique;
- Comply with the safety standards and practices established by Québec Subaquatique.
Learn more
There is a regulation on recreational scuba diving qualifications in Quebec:
https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/rc/s-3.1,%20r.%208?langCont=en
Who is Québec Subaquatique?
Québec Subaquatique is the outdoor recreation federation dedicated to promoting, supporting, and developing underwater activities throughout Quebec. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all underwater enthusiasts — whether beginners, experienced divers, or simply the curious.
Québec Subaquatique is the only organization authorized to accredit recreational divers and instructors on behalf of the Government of Quebec.
For any questions or further information, feel free to contact us.
To add a pool to the atlas of rental-access pools (FR), contact the geomatics department.