Is splash pad water tested for bacteria?

Public splash pad water testing is regulated by state and county health departments, and rules vary widely. In most states, recirculating splash pads must be tested for free chlorine residual and pH multiple times daily, with periodic bacterial sampling for E. coli, total coliforms, and sometimes Pseudomonas. Some states also mandate Cryptosporidium-rated UV or ozone secondary treatment. Flow-through pads (which discharge water after one use) are often regulated less strictly because contamination doesn't recirculate, but municipal potable-water sources are still tested upstream. Inspection reports are typically public — look up your local health department's pool/spa inspection portal or call the parks department. If you ever see cloudy water, strong chemical smell, or visible algae, skip the pad and report it.