Pool & Spa Safety
Understanding Pool & Spa Barrier Requirements in Victoria
Under the Building Regulations 2018, all swimming pools and spas in Victoria capable of containing water to a depth of 300mm or more must be surrounded by a compliant safety barrier. The purpose of this legislation is to prevent unsupervised access by young children.
Key Regulatory Requirements
- The barrier must completely enclose the pool or spa, preventing unsupervised access from all directions
- Gates must open outwards, away from the pool area, and be self-closing and self-latching
- The latch release must be positioned so it cannot be reached by young children
- Barrier heights and construction must comply with AS 1926.1
- There must be no climbable objects within 900mm of the outside of the barrier, or within 300mm of the inside
Resale Note:
Sellers of properties with a pool or spa must provide a current compliance certificate to the buyer at settlement.
Registration
All pools and spas must be registered with your local council. Registration is a separate obligation to compliance certification.
Pool & Spa Barrier Registration & Inspection
Registration
If your pool or spa is not yet registered with your local council, this should be your first step. Registration is required under the Building Regulations 2018 and involves lodging basic details about your pool or spa with council. We can advise you on the process if you’re unsure where to start.
Barrier Inspection
Once registered, your barrier must be inspected within the prescribed period. Inspections must also occur at least every 4 years thereafter. As licensed Pool Inspectors, we can schedule and conduct your inspection, and issue the relevant compliance certificate or notice.
New Pools & Spas
If you’re constructing a new pool or spa, a building permit is required. Once construction is complete, a barrier inspection must be passed before the pool or spa can be filled and used.
