(A) As used in this section, “public swimming beach” means land along a shoreline that is under the control of the division of parks and watercraft and is used by the public when swimming and bathing in waters adjacent to the beach.

Terms Used In Ohio Code 1546.08

  • state: means the state of Ohio. See Ohio Code 1.59
  • Watercraft: means any of the following when used or capable of being used for transportation on the water:

    (1) A vessel operated by machinery either permanently or temporarily affixed;

    (2) A sailboat other than a sailboard;

    (3) An inflatable, manually propelled vessel that is required by federal law to have a hull identification number meeting the requirements of the United States coast guard;

    (4) A canoe, kayak, pedalboat, or rowboat;

    (5) Any of the following multimodal craft being operated on waters in this state:

    (a) An amphibious vehicle;

    (b) A submersible;

    (c) An airboat or hovercraft. See Ohio Code 1546.01

(B) The chief of the division of parks and watercraft shall ensure that the waters of this state that are adjacent to public swimming beaches are sampled and tested in accordance with the techniques and procedures established by the director of health under section 3701.18 of the Revised Code. The department of health may assist the division in the sampling and testing of the waters.

(C) On receipt of notification by the director of health under section 3701.18 of the Revised Code that the bacteria levels in the waters tested present a possible health risk to persons using the waters for swimming and bathing and that the posting of signs advising the public of the condition is warranted, the chief shall ensure that appropriate signs are posted in appropriate locations at the affected area.