Pool Safety & Council Rules

Before you install: pool safety is your legal responsibility.

Across Australia, a pool or spa that can hold more than about 30 cm of water needs a compliant safety barrier to keep young children out. This includes above-ground and relocatable pools like ours. Most states also need council approval before installation, and some need the pool registered. The rules are set by each state and territory and your local council, so check before you order. Barrier, permit and council costs aren't included in our prices.

Victoria

Pools and spas that can hold more than 30 cm of water must be registered with your local council and have a compliant safety barrier. You'll usually need a building permit before installing the pool, spa or barrier. Victorian Building Authority

New South Wales

Pools and spas must be registered on the NSW Swimming Pool Register, meet fencing laws and display a CPR sign. This also applies to portable pools that can hold more than 30 cm of water. NSW Government: pool owner obligations and the NSW Swimming Pool Register

Queensland

All residential pools and outdoor spas must be registered with the QBCC. Pools that can be filled to 300 mm or more must have a compliant barrier. Queensland Government: registering a pool and QBCC: pool safety laws

South Australia

Development approval from your council is required for a new pool, spa and safety fencing. All pools and spas must have a continuous safety barrier maintained by the owner. SA Government: pool and spa safety

Western Australia

Private pools and spas, including portable pools, with water more than 30 cm deep must have a safety barrier. Your local government can advise on approvals and inspects barriers. WA Building and Energy: barrier requirements

Tasmania

A pool or spa that holds 300 mm or more of water must have a pool safety barrier. A pool or spa cover isn't a compliant barrier. Check with your council about permits. CBOS Tasmania: pool safety barriers

Australian Capital Territory

Home pools and spas that can hold more than 30 cm of water must have a safety barrier that meets current standards, and it must be maintained. Older pools need a compliance certificate by 1 May 2028. ACT Planning: home swimming pool safety

Northern Territory

On residential properties under 1.8 hectares, you must install a pool safety barrier. Before the pool is filled with more than 30 cm of water, the barrier must meet the Modified Australian Standard, be inspected by a pool safety adviser and have a compliance certificate. NT Government: installing a pool or spa

Always

Always supervise children around water. Keep the pool covered when not in use, but remember a cover doesn't replace a compliant barrier.

This is a general guide only. Rules change, and councils can have extra requirements, so confirm with your local council before you install.