Fencing of Swimming Pools Act criteria
All private pools and spa pools have to be fenced unless:
- They are less than 400 mm deep
- The walls of the pool (or the pool's surrounds) are 1.2 metres or more above the ground. This means no permanent means of access such as steps are allowed and temporary steps must be removed after being used
- The pool is indoors
Inside the fence
The area inside the fence can only include things used in association with the pool, such as a sunbathing deck or changing shed. You cannot include features such as a clothes line, barbecue or vegetable garden.
Buildings and boundary walls
These can only form part of the fence if they meet stringent requirements.
If you use a boundary fence, there is the risk that a neighbour may provide unwitting access for a child by, for example, stacking timber against their side of the fence.
Specifications of the Act
Existing pools must be fenced to the specifications of the schedule to the Act. A new fence, or alterations to an existing fence, must meet the performance standard of the Building Code. Contact us for information about the criteria that your fence must conform to.
The schedule of the Act set out specifications that will automatically ensure a swimming pool or spa pool fence meets the performance standard of the Building Code.
Last reviewed: 25 Sep 2008 5:13pm
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