Austin Pools Now Charging, Two Remain Free | The Locally Times
Austin Parks and Recreation implemented a new operational model for the 2026 swim season, including increased lifeguard pay and year-round free access at two pools.
Austin's Parks and Recreation Department began charging seasonal entry fees at four city pools on Saturday, March 14, 2026, while Big Stacy and Colony Park pools continue to offer free access year-round. This operational adjustment supports the city's aquatic services for the 2026 swim season. The City of Austin released information on these changes on February 18, 2026. Seasonal passes are available for purchase, valid through October 31, 2026, and include parking at Zilker Park, providing a comprehensive option for residents planning regular visits. ## Supporting Aquatic Services The Austin Parks and Recreation Aquatic Division is actively recruiting and training hundreds of lifeguards for the upcoming season. The starting pay for these positions is $22.05 per hour, as stated by the City of Austin on March 14, 2026. This recruitment drive aims to ensure adequate staffing and safe operations across the city's aquatic facilities. The availability of these roles and the competitive pay rate contribute to building a robust team for community recreation. Residents can monitor the ongoing lifeguard recruitment and training efforts by the Austin Parks and Recreation Aquatic Division. The availability of seasonal passes provides an option for regular pool users, and information on individual entry fees can be found on the city's website.