(a) On or after December 31, 2000, a permit shall be obtained from the county board of health in the county in which a public swimming pool is located prior to construction or continued operation of a public swimming pool. When the ownership of a public swimming pool changes or if the pool is leased by the owner, it shall be the responsibility of the new owner or lessee to secure a permit issued in his or her name.

(b) Unless suspended or revoked, a swimming pool operation permit shall be valid for the period of operation specified in the application, but in no event shall it be valid for more than 12 months.