Non residents using our pools

In my community, we have 4 pools, and I noticed last night there were a group of people using our pool, they didn't have a key to get in, but reached over the gate and opened it. Then 2 men joined them at the other entrance, they let them in. The men proceeded to go through the garbage collecting cans and left. The woman stayed and swam. What can we do about that? Any ideas? I guess this is not uncommon here. I think we should stop it due to liability if nothing else.

We do have locked gates. The one gal reached over the gate and opened it from the inside. They could be renters, we are a large complex, thier actions led me to believe they were trespassing. I was just wondering if some of you have come across this and figured out a way to stay on top of it.

"rented their pool time for the evening"?!?!

Now I've heard everything (okay, so not everything, but darn near!)

And I would have thought that "locked" meant "not able to open without a key" (and/or passcard, etc).

I wouldn't consider something "locked" that could simply be opened by a reach around.

I not only think there is a way, I'm of the mind that the sooner you move to find a solution, the better for everyone.

Like was mentioned, it's probably going to be neither cheap nor convenient!

Linda since our pool fence and gates are open bars (easy to reach through) they require a key to open from either side.

Glen and Anna: both are great ideas. No, we don't have signs stating that; and it wouldn't be that expensive to put locks on both sides. Geez!! See, I knew I'd get some help!!!!
Thank you.

Some HOA issue beach "tags" that must be carried to the beach and shown on request. This seems to work very well, with a paid beach monitor.

LindaM8,

Ideally a magnetic card read (F.O.B), will keep those unauthorized to use the amenities from entering the pool area without permission. This card reader can activate and deactivate cards very easily. Our association purchase and had installed the year before last and it has reduced the majority of the trespassing and vandalizes!

A less expensive alternative would be too:

A.)Lock the gate (NO BRAINER)-it isn’t a “locked gate” if you can reach over the top to gain access!

B.)Call the police-have them arrested, that WILL reduce the amount of trespassing to your pool.

C.)Post NO TRESPASSING SIGNS

D.)Post signs stating that all-TRESPASSERS WILL BE PROSECUTED TO THE FULL EXTENT OF THE LAW- all damages and expenses will be assess to the trespasser.

E.) Post sign on the front gate, to announce the hours permitted. You may have such signage posted already, just making sure though!

These are just a few of the many ideas you will likely receive and all can be done within hours and save the members (of the association) hundred upon thousands of dollars.

I would highly suggest acting on these suggestions immediately. These alone will likely keep those you have seen in your pool after hours, OUT!

Best of luck and keep us posted.

Chuck W.

Thank you all so much for your ideas. For a quick inexpensive fix, I really like the idea of the beach tag. I also like the card reader and video idea, but we do have 4 pools and that could be more than we can handle financially at this time. I will keep you posted, and again, thank you!