Building a New Pool? How Pool Barrier Rules Catch Homeowners Off Guard

Every year in Ballarat, I inspect pools and spas that look incredible… but don’t tick the compliance box.

Not because the pool/spa itself was built wrong - but because the pool barrier rules were misunderstood, overlooked, or left until the last minute.

If you’re building a new pool or spa in Victoria, pool safety compliance isn’t something you “sort out later”. The rules are strict, inspections are mandatory, and small details can stop you from filling the pool or signing off the project.

Here’s what commonly catches people off guard - and how to avoid it.

• Pool fences installed after landscaping. Landscaping should be designed around the requirements for barriers.

• Openable windows unintentionally forming part of the barrier

• Non-compliant gate latches or self-closing mechanisms

• Furniture, planters, or retaining walls creating climbable zones

Tips for Homeowners Building a New Pool

Don’t Assume Pool Compliance Is Included

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that:

• Pool builders sometimes don’t handle barrier certification

• Landscaping and fencing contractors may not know the full legislation and standards

• Compliance is ultimately your legal responsibility

Always ask early: Who is responsible for the pool barrier inspection and certificate?

Your House Might Be Part of the Barrier (Even If You Didn’t Plan It)

In Victoria, walls of the house can form part of the pool barrier - but only if:

• Windows meet strict safety requirements

• There are no climbable features nearby

• Clearances and heights comply exactly

This often catches homeowners off guard during inspections.

Landscaping Can Accidentally Make Your Pool Non-Compliant

Common issues I see:

• Pot plants placed near fencing

• Built-in seating or steps too close to barriers

• Retaining walls acting as ladders or too close to barriers

• Trees planted too close to the barrier (trees grow and may become climbable over time)

• Trees/ vegetation planted on pool side of boundary fence (if boundary fence forms part of the barrier) that encroach into the non-climbable zone of the boundary fence

These are usually added after the pool is finished - and then fail inspection.

Certification Timing Matters

You can’t just “book an inspection anytime”.

• Councils require pools to be registered

• Inspectors can only certify once everything is compliant

• Delays can mean you’re staring at a finished pool you can’t legally use
  Why Pool Barrier Compliance Is More Than “Just a Fence”
  

In Victoria, all swimming pools and spas must have a compliant safety barrier that meets:

• The Building Regulations 2018 (Vic)

• Australian Standard AS1926.1

• Local council registration and certification requirements

Before a pool can be legally used, it must:

1. Be registered with council

2. Pass a pool barrier inspection

3. Receive a Certificate of Compliance

Miss one step, and the pool can’t be signed off - even if construction is complete.

Most pool barrier failures aren’t about cutting corners - they’re about assumptions.

If you’re building a new pool or spa in Ballarat or regional Victoria, the best advice I can give is simple:

Book a pool barrier consultation - This service provides you with advice on what you can and can’t do before the barrier is installed so you get it right the first time.

If you are a builder, landscaper or homeowner reading this get in touch with questions - I am happy to help.