Why do I need a pool and spa barrier?
Pool and spa barriers saves lives. As a pool or spa owner, you are required to install a safety barrier and have it checked for compliance. Non-compliance of the safety barrier is the single biggest contributing factor to tragic drowning deaths of young children at home.
The most common issues of non-compliance of the safety barrier are: faulty fence or gate; lack of fences and; gates propped open
Do all pools and spas need to be registered?
All swimming pools and spas on residential properties in Victoria with a depth greater than 30cm are required to be registered and enclosed by a compliant safety barrier. This includes bathing pools, wading pools, inflatable pools, above-ground pools, indoor pools, hot tubs and jacuzzis which are capable of holding more than 30cm of water.
Are there any exemptions?
Temporarily erected children's paddling pools not capable of holding a depth of water of more than 30cm and domestic baths, which are emptied after each use, are exempt. However, strict supervision should be shown at all times where water and children are concerned.
Bird baths, fish ponds, fountains, dams and the like which are not intended for swimming are not included in these regulations, and are exempt.
I have special circumstances that prevent me from registering my pool and/or spa by 1 November 2020, what should I do?
Registering your swimming pool or spa is an important safety step and is a legislative requirement for all pool and spa owners.
Non-registration of a pool and spa by 1 November 2020 will incur a fine of approximately $330.40
If there are special circumstances which may prevent you from registering your pool or spa, please contact our Building Services team.
What happens if I do not apply to register my pool or spa by 1 November 2020?
If you do not apply to register your pool and/or spa by 1 November 2020, you will incur an on the spot fine of $330.40. A maximum penalty of $1,652.20 applies for failure to register within the relevant timeframe, so we highly encourage you to register on time to avoid being fined.
When do I need to lodge my first Certificate of Pool and Spa Safety?
After you have registered your pool or spa with Knox Council, we will notify you of the date required to lodge your first certificate of compliance. The lodgement date of your first certificate depends on when your pool or spa was constructed.
Who inspects my pool or spa barrier?
You will need to engage a Registered Building Inspector or Registered Building Surveyor to undertake your pool or spa barrier inspection. Some Inspectors and Surveyors specialise in swimming pool or spa barriers. A quick google search for a registered pool inspector in Victoria will help you find a suitable building practitioner.
What if my pool/spa has been removed?
If you have removed or decommissioned your pool or spa, please let us know by completing the following online form:
My Pool/Spa has been Removed
Where can I find more information about the new pool and spa safety standards?
If you would like to learn more about the new pool and spa safety requirements introduced by the Victorian Government please visit the
Victorian Building Authority website.
I have other queries about Knox Council’s pool and spa registry, who should I contact?
Our Building Services team are available to help you with your queries.
Contact Building Services about a Pool or Spa