Full-coverage swimwear at the swimming pool in France: 2025 regulations, rights and practical advice
The question of access to public swimming pools while wearing full-coverage swimwear remains a sensitive issue in France in 2025. This guide outlines the current regulations, your rights, and provides practical advice.
What is the official regulation in France?
There is no no French national law which explicitly prohibits the wearing of a full-coverage swimsuit (burkini, Bahr-Bikini or swimming suit) in public or private swimming pools.
Hygiene regulations are primarily defined by the Decree No. 81-324 of April 7, 1981 which mandates the use of “non-floating swimsuits” — a technical requirement aimed at avoiding loose clothing that could create drowning risks, and not at imposing a particular style.
Swimming pool rules and regulations
Most public swimming pools require:
- The non-floating swimsuit (excludes loose-fitting cotton clothing)
- The swimming cap (applicable to all)
- The fitted jersey to the body
The Bahr-Bikini, thanks to its fitted technical fabric, generally meets these criteria.
The reasons given by swimming pools for the restrictions
Hygiene: This argument is often disputed by experts regarding modern technical fabrics.
Security: does not apply to fitted suits such as the Bahr-Bikini.
The neutrality of public service: This argument has yielded varying results depending on the court.
Which full-coverage swimsuits are generally accepted?
- Long, fitted technical fabric swimsuits
- Swimming rashguards (long-sleeved tops) worn with swim leggings
- Bahr-Bikini models in fitted technical jersey
How to prepare before going to the swimming pool?
- Contact the pool in advance — call or send an email
- Read the internal regulations available on their website
- Bring the technical specifications of your Bahr-Bikini (UPF 50+ certified)
- Know your rights — The Defender of Rights can be contacted in cases of discrimination
Your rights if you are refused entry to a public swimming pool
If a public swimming pool refuses to let you in because of your clothing:
- The Defender of Rights : defenderdesdroits.fr (free)
- Administrative justice : challenge the legality of the internal regulations
- Associations women’s rights advocacy
Testimonials
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aïcha T., Paris 15th
“I wore my olive green Bahr-Bikini to my local pool and there were no problems — the lifeguard simply asked me to put on a swim cap, like everyone else.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ Leila M., Roubaix
“I called ahead and was told that coveralls covering the arms and legs were acceptable. My visit went without any problems.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the burkini banned in swimming pools in France?
No, there is no national law in France banning the burkini in swimming pools. Any restrictions are determined by the internal regulations of each establishment.
What should I do if a swimming pool refuses to let me wear my full-coverage swimsuit?
Ask to see the written internal regulations and the precise reason for the refusal. If you believe you are the victim of unlawful discrimination, contact the Defender of Rights (defenseurdesdroits.fr).
