Swimming pools and spas must be properly installed, maintained and protected by compliant safety barriers. Use the sections below to learn about permits, inspections, fees, safety requirements and decommissioning.
Before installing a swimming pool or spa, you may need a building permit for both the pool or spa and its associated safety barrier. It is important to understand the approval requirements before commencing any works, as different requirements may apply depending on the type, size and location of the proposed pool or spa.
Planning ahead can help avoid delays and ensure your project complies with relevant regulations.
All private swimming pools and spas containing more than 30 cm of water, including portable pools, must be protected by a compliant safety barrier. Safety barriers play an important role in preventing unsupervised access by young children and must be maintained in working order at all times.
Property owners are responsible for ensuring gates, fences, doors and any other components forming part of the barrier remain compliant.
Once your pool or spa has been installed, you must notify the City to arrange an inspection of the safety barrier or fence to ensure it complies with the applicable Australian Standards.
The City operates a mandatory four-yearly inspection program for private swimming pools and spas.
Inspection Fee
Annual charge: $49.67 per year
This charge appears as a separate item on your annual rates notice and covers the cost of your property's mandatory pool or spa barrier inspections conducted every four years.
Total cost over four years: $198.68
Builders and contractors are responsible for maintaining a safe worksite during the construction of a swimming pool or spa. Appropriate safety measures, including temporary barriers where required, should be in place throughout the construction period to manage risks associated with open excavations and water hazards.
All work must be undertaken in accordance with relevant legislation, approved plans and applicable safety requirements.
If you intend to permanently decommission a swimming pool or spa, specific requirements may apply. Decommissioning generally involves removing the pool or spa from use and ensuring it no longer presents a safety risk.
Before commencing any decommissioning works, contact the City to discuss the applicable requirements and seek advice on the process. Depending on the circumstances, engagement of a suitably qualified professional, such as a structural engineer, may be required.
