Complete Pool Compliance Guide

Understanding Pool Compliance in South Australia

Pool compliance in South Australia is governed by specific regulations designed to ensure the safety of swimming pools and prevent drowning incidents, particularly among young children. These regulations apply to all swimming pools capable of being filled to a depth greater than 300mm, including in-ground pools, above-ground pools, indoor pools, spas, and hot tubs.

As a pool owner in South Australia, understanding and adhering to these compliance requirements is not just a legal obligation but a crucial safety measure. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pool compliance in SA.

Key Legislation and Standards

Pool safety in South Australia is primarily governed by:

• Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA) - Sets out the legal framework for pool safety requirements
• Australian Standard AS 1926.1-2012 - Specifies the safety requirements for swimming pool barriers
• Australian Standard AS 1926.2-2007 - Covers the location of safety barriers for swimming pools
• Ministerial Building Standard MBS 004 - Swimming pool and spa pool safety

When Is a Pool Compliance Certificate Required?

In South Australia, a pool compliance certificate is required in several situations:

• When selling a property with a pool

  The pool must comply with the current safety standards or the standards that were in place when the pool was approved. Many conveyancers require a compliance certificate to proceed with settlement.

• After installing a new pool

  All new pools must comply with the current safety standards and require certification.

• After making modifications to pool barriers

  Any significant changes to the pool area or safety barriers require re-certification.

• For peace of mind

  Many homeowners choose to get a compliance certificate for their own peace of mind, especially if they have young children or frequently host guests with children.

Pool Barrier Requirements

The primary purpose of pool barriers is to restrict access to the pool area by young children. Here are the key requirements for compliant pool barriers in South Australia:

Barrier Height and Structure

• Minimum height of 1.2 meters from the finished ground level
• No gaps greater than 100mm between vertical members
• No horizontal climbable members between 150mm and 900mm from the ground
• No objects or projections within the 900mm non-climbable zone

Gates and Access Points

• Gates must open outward, away from the pool area
• Gates must be self-closing and self-latching from all positions
• Latching devices must be at least 1.5 meters above the ground or positioned so that they cannot be reached by a child
• No direct access from the house to the pool area without going through a compliant gate

Windows and Doors

• Windows that provide access to the pool area must not open more than 100mm or must be fitted with security screens
• Doors providing direct access to the pool area are generally not permitted unless they comply with specific requirements

Different Types of Pools and Their Requirements

In-Ground Pools

In-ground pools require a compliant barrier that completely surrounds the pool. The barrier must meet all the height, structure, and access requirements outlined above.

Above-Ground Pools

For above-ground pools, the sides of the pool can form part of the barrier if they are at least 1.2 meters high and do not have any climbable objects within 900mm of the top. Access points, such as ladders, must be secured when the pool is not in use or enclosed within a compliant barrier.

Spas and Hot Tubs

Spas and hot tubs must either be surrounded by a compliant barrier or have a lockable safety cover that can support the weight of an adult. When the cover is locked in place, there should be no gap greater than 100mm.

Inflatable and Portable Pools

Inflatable and portable pools capable of being filled to a depth greater than 300mm are subject to the same safety requirements as permanent pools. They must be surrounded by a compliant barrier when filled with water.

Pool Compliance Inspection Process

Getting your pool certified involves the following steps:

1. Book an inspection - Schedule a time for a licensed inspector to assess your pool and barriers.
2. Initial assessment - The inspector will thoroughly check all aspects of your pool barrier against the relevant standards.
3. Receive a detailed report - You'll get a comprehensive report outlining any non-compliance issues that need to be addressed.
4. Make necessary adjustments - If your pool doesn't meet all requirements, you'll need to make the necessary changes.
5. Re-inspection (not required) - Once adjustments are made, provide photo or video proof to verify compliance.
6. Certificate issuance - When your pool fully complies with all requirements, you'll receive your compliance certificate.

Common Compliance Issues

During inspections, certain issues are frequently identified. Being aware of these can help you prepare your pool for certification:

• Climbable objects near the barrier

  Items like furniture, plants, or garden features positioned too close to the fence can provide a climbing point for children.

• Gates that don't self-close or self-latch properly

  Worn hinges, misaligned gates, or damaged latching mechanisms can prevent gates from functioning correctly.

• Gaps in or under the barrier

  Erosion, settling, or damage can create gaps that exceed the maximum 100mm allowance.

• Non-compliant barrier height

  Barriers that don't maintain the minimum 1.2-meter height around the entire perimeter.

• Horizontal climbable members

  Fence designs with horizontal rails or decorative elements that can be used as footholds within the non-climbable zone.

Pool Compliance Checklist

Use this checklist to assess your pool's compliance before scheduling an official inspection:

Maintaining Compliance Over Time

Pool compliance isn't a one-time consideration. To ensure ongoing safety and legal compliance:

• Regularly inspect your pool barrier for damage, wear, or shifts in the ground that might create gaps
• Test gate hinges and latching mechanisms frequently to ensure they're functioning properly
• Be mindful of landscaping changes or additions that might create climbing points
• Consider periodic professional inspections, especially if you have young children or frequently host guests with children