Find out about safety barriers, when you need a Building Permit, how to apply and swimming pool inspections.
Do you need a safety barrier?
All property owners who have a swimming pool or spa on their property are required by law to provide a compliant safety barrier around the pool or spa.
Pool safety barriers must comply with the provisions of the Building Code of Australia, Building Regulations 2012 and Australian Standards 1926 Part 1.
Do you need a Building Permit?
A Building Permit ensures that the proposed building work complies with the Building Codes of Australia and other relevant standards and legislation.
Swimming pools and outdoor spas that are capable of containing a depth of water more than 300mm require a Building Permit from the Shire, prior to their construction or installation. This requirement includes inflatable and portable above-ground pools purchased off the shelf.
Important notes:
- Fences that form part of a safety barrier to a private swimming pool only require a building permit if they:
a) also act as a fall protection barrier (also known as a balustrade), where people could fall 1m or more from a floor or roof or through an opening (other than through an openable window) in the external wall of a building, or due to a sudden change of level within or associated with a building; or
b) are not constructed in accordance with a relevant local law; or
c) are constructed of masonry and over 0.75 m in height*; or
d) are constructed of a material other than masonry and over 1.8 m in height*; or
e) are located in Wind Region C or D (as detailed in the AS/NZS 1170.2, as referenced in the edition of the BCA in effect at the time)*.
* unless constructed in accordance with a relevant Local Government local law.
- Following the construction of a swimming pool and safety barrier, an inspection is required to be conducted. This is a separate requirement to the four yearly inspections. Please complete the Pool Inspection Request form and email to [email protected].
How to apply
Refer to Building Permit Application
Ongoing swimming pool inspections
The Shire has a legislative obligation to ensure that swimming pools and spas are inspected upon completion and at least once every four years to ensure compliance of the safety barriers with legislative requirements. An inspection fee is applicable following each inspection.
More information and contact
For more information, please contact the Shire’s Building Services Team on (08) 9780 5291 or email [email protected]