Swimming pools and spas
Before building a swimming pool or spa, find out the key facts about a property. Use the information to find out if your swimming pool or spa project needs planning approval.
Definition
The Building Act 1975 defines a swimming pool as an excavation or structure:
- capable of being filled with water to a depth of 300 millimetres or more
- capable of being used for swimming, bathing, wading, paddling or other human aquatic activities
- used, designed, manufactured or adapted for the purpose mentioned above, despite its current use.
This includes spas and wading pools (other than portable wading pools).
It does not include a:
- fish pond
- ornamental pond, manufactured to be used for ornamental purposes
- dam used for aquaculture, marine research or storage of water
- watercourse
- spa bath situated in a bathroom which is not continually filled with water
- birthing pool used solely for water births
- portable wading pool.
A portable wading pool is defined as:
- capable of being filled with water to a depth of less than 300 millimetres
- having a volume of no more than 2000 litres
- having no filtration or pumping system.
Development application
Prior to works being carried out, the project may require an approved development application:
- depending on the zone that applies
- whether the site is located within a neighbourhood plan area, or
- is affected by an overlay.
To find out the zone that applies or if your site is in a neighbourhood plan or overlay area, look at the key facts about a property.
Building approval
You will need a building approval for your swimming pool and pool fence. Arrange this through a building certifier.
The construction and maintenance of swimming pools and pool fencing must comply with:
- the Building Act 1975
- Building Regulation 2006, and
- relevant Australian Standards.
It is the responsibility of property owners to ensure the pool and barriers are compliant at all times. For more information, check the swimming pool safety regulations.