(1) Overflow gutters shall be provided on all swimming pools having a surface area over 1600 square feet unless it is demonstrated to the regulatory authority that skimmers will do an equivalent recirculation job. Swimming pools having a surface area less than 1600 square feet may be provided with either overflow gutters or skimmers.

(2) Overflow gutters shall extend around the entire perimeter of the swimming pool, except at steps or recessed ladders.

(3) The overflow gutter shall be capable of continuously removing 50% or more of the recirculated water and returning it to the filter.

(4) All overflow gutters shall be connected to the recirculation system through a surge tank. The gutter, drains, and return piping to the surge tank shall be designed to rapidly remove overflow water caused by recirculation displacement, wave action, or other causes.

(5) The opening into the gutter beneath the coping shall not be less than 4 inches and the interior of the gutter shall not be less than 3 inches wide with a depth of at least 3 inches. Where large gutters are used they shall be designed to prevent entrance or entrapment of the bathers' arms or legs.

(6) The overflow edge or lip shall be rounded and must not exceed 2 and 1/2 inches in thickness for the top 2 inches. The overflow edge or lip shall also be designed to serve as a handhold.

(7) The overflow gutters shall be provided with outlet pipes which shall in any case be at least 1 and 1/2 inches in diameter and shall drain at least 15 lineal feet of gutter.