We confess to receiving slightly vague feedback in the pursuit of the answer to this question, but some calls to both the Health Department and to some random pools led us to conclude the following:
There is a health code governing food and drink in pool areas, the ruling being that no food or beverage should be consumed within four feet of the water, for obvious reasons. If the pool wants to enforce this ruling more strictly, that's their prerogative, but the official distance is four feet. Of course, we've seen people consuming beverage on the side of, or even in some of the party pools, but that's officially a no-no and would be objected to, should an inspector happen to pay a visit. This is the word we got from the Clark County Health Dept., although no inspector was available to take our call.
In terms of bringing in outside food and beverages, all the pools we spoke with gave us an emphatic "no," although not necessarily for the same reasons. Naked Pool at Artisan cited a "health code," but couldn't specify what that code was. Both Mandalay Bay and Bare Pool Lounge at the Mirage were more candid and agreed that the "no outside food/drinks" policy is simply a commercial one, since these facilities all serve food and drinks themselves and want you to purchuase from their outlets, rather than bringing a packed lunch with you. (As an aside, Mandalay Bay does allow you to bring your own inflatables, however.)
Another factor at work, especially at some of the wilder party pools, is probably the concept of being able to monitor and control patrons' alcohol intake. If you're ordering from the bar, the venue can shut you down if they believe you've had too much to drink; if you're swigging liquor disguised in a soda bottle, for example, it's a lot harder for them to control.
While we're on the subject, we'll take this opportunity to issue a friendly caution about poolside indulgence: DO wear sunblock, even on a cloudy day; DO drink lots of water; and DON'T overindulge on the booze, because you will almost certainly regret it when you wake up dehydrated with the hangover from hell.
For the lowdown on pool amenities, including poolside and swim-up gaming facilities, spa services, topless options, and much more, check out our comprehensive Cool Pools feature, updated annually and throughout the season.
