General Pool Requirements
Under the Swimming Pools Act 1992 (NSW) the owner of a swimming pool has the responsibility to ensure that the pool is at all times surrounded by a complying child-resistant pool fence or safety barrier.
Pool fences must be maintained in a good state of repair as an effective and safe barrier restricting access to the pool.
General requirements
- All pools, including pre-fabricated self-installed pools, require approval prior to installation. Council or another approval authority is required to inspect and approve the child-resistant barrier system prior to filling the pool with water.
- Pools must be separated from residential buildings and adjoining public or private properties by child-resistant barriers in accordance with the Regulations and AS1926.1-2007.
- Gates must be self-closing and self-latching and open outwards from the pool.
- No door access from a residential building into an outdoor pool is permitted.
- Walls of above-ground pools or self-installed prefabricated pools are not accepted as a child-resistant barrier.
- Only structures associated with the pool (filter housing, etc.) are permitted within the enclosed pool area.
Structures within the Pool Area
Under the Swimming Pools Act only structures associated with the pool can be located within the pool area. Should the structure be used in any way with the dwelling or outdoor activity other than the pool then the structure can not be within the pool area. This includes cloths lines, bar-b-que, sheds, entertainment structure, outside toilet.
The relevant legislation and standards for pool safety are:
Note - Refer to the Regulations to inform you of the requirements rather than solely relying on BCA or AS1926.1-2007 as the Regulation excludes/restricts some clauses of AS1926.1-2007 for pools in NSW.
For pool safety for new pools, renovated pools and works adjacent to pool areas follow the links below:
Need more information?
More information can be obtained from your Accredited Certifier (for pool construction) or the council's Pool Safety Officer - phone 02 9710 0333.