The top 10 questions about pool fencing laws and regulations in Australia
We have compiled the 10 most frequently asked questions about pool fencing. If you have other questions, you can ask The Poolz Guru or feel free to get in contact.
Are pool fencing laws and regulations the same throughout Australia?
No. Pool fencing laws and regulations differ in each state and territory so you must ensure your pool fence complies with the relevant laws and regulations in your area.
Can I install my own pool fence?
Yes. However, pool fencing laws and regulations differ slightly in each state and territory, so we recommend engaging a licenced professional to install your pool fence. If you are still keen to install your own pool fence, before starting you must check with your local council to ensure your pool fence will comply with the relevant laws and regulations in your area.
Can I use my boundary fence as part of the pool fence?
Yes. In fact, that can be a fantastic way to reduce the overall cost of your pool fence installation. However, to comply with pool fencing laws and regulations, your boundary fence must be at least 1800mm high measured from the inside of the pool area if it forms part of the pool fence. Additionally, your boundary fence may need some upgrading or modifications to ensure it is in good repair and complies with relevant pool fencing laws and regulations in your area.
Can I use my house as part of the pool fence?
Yes. This can be another fantastic way to reduce the overall cost of your pool fence installation. However, to comply with pool fencing laws and regulations there are some important aspects to consider. For example, if a wall forms part of the barrier, there must be no openings greater than 100mm so if the wall includes windows, they must only open to a maximum of 100mm or be completely covered by bars or a mesh screen. Furthermore, the height from the windowsill of the lowest opening panel of the window (to the pool area) must be at least 1800mm from the floor.
What is the legal height for a pool fence in Australia?
To comply with pool fencing laws and regulations throughout Australia, the Australian Standard AS 1926.1 - 2012 states that a pool fence shall not be less than 1.2m (1200mm) in height. In other words, the pool fence must be at least 1200mm high all the way around measured from the outside of the pool.
What is the maximum gap for a pool fence?
Any vertical gaps in a pool fence must not exceed 100mm and the horizontal gap from finished ground level to the bottom of the pool fence must also no exceed 100mm. Furthermore, the pool fence must not be installed near any potential climbable objects (taps, trees, pot plants, hardscape structures etc) and/or must not include any potential hand holds or foot holds greater than 10mm within 900mm of the top of the pool fence in any direction (this is commonly referred to as the non-climbable zone). Perforated or mesh pool fencing must also not contain any holes or gaps greater than 13mm.
Are pool gates the same as standard gates?
No. To comply with pool fencing laws and regulations, pool gates require more stringent safety features than standard gates. For example, the pool gate must have no vertical barriers greater than 100mm, it must only open outwards, away from the pool, and it must be self-closing. Additionally, the pool gate must latch by itself from any position so that the gate is secure and, once closed, cannot be pulled open. The pool gate latch must be 1500mm above ground level, or if located inside the pool gate, 1200mm above ground level and at least 150mm below the top of the pool gate with an effective shielded radius of 450mm.
What type of pool fence is the safest?
Any pool fence that complies with the pool fencing laws and regulations in your area is considered equally safe, so the good news is that you do not have to compromise the overall look and feel of your dream backyard oasis by building an ugly fortress around your swimming pool. If you’re not sure which type of pool fence to choose, check out The Poolz Guide to Selecting the Best Pool Fence.
Can I put a temporary fence around my pool?
No. Temporary pool fencing does not comply with Australian pool fencing laws and regulations. This also above-ground pools or kiddy pools that are more than 300mm (30cm) deep. Your pool builder will likely install temporary pool fencing during construction to ensure the safety of anyone approaching the pool zone, however once the pool has been completed, a permanent, certified, pool fence must be installed. Importantly, all forms of portable pool fencing and pool covers also do not comply with Australian pool fencing laws and regulations.
What is the fine for not having a pool fence?
Fines for not installing a certified pool fence vary across Australia however they can exceed $5,000 with on-the-spot fines exceeding $500 for each pool safety standard that is non-compliant.
Conclusion
Our mission at Poolz is simple. We exist to help make your pool building experience as simple and seamless as possible from start to finish by ensuring you are fully prepared and well-informed every step of the way.
If you need any more information on pool fencing, be sure to check out The Poolz Guide to Selecting the Best Pool Fence and our detailed breakdown of Pool Fencing Costs, this comprehensive overview of pool fencing options, or if you’d rather cut straight to the chase and have all your swimming pool questions answered in the fastest way possible, simply ask The Poolz Guru.
Go on, fire any question at him and be blown away by his wisdom on everything from different pool types, shapes, and sizes through to pool fencing laws, regulations, and much, much more!
Disclaimer: The information on this Site is intended to provide general information and guidance only. You should not use the information on this Site to replace advice by a professional. Nothing on this Site constitutes, or is meant to constitute, advice of any kind. We strongly recommend that all individuals consult a professional before following any information provided on this Site. You should not rely on the Site as your exclusive or primary source of information.
