Swimming pools

It is a requirement that all swimming pools are registered. Many will also need a building consent in order to comply with the Building Act.

No. This is a registration. All pool owners are required to advise us of the existence or intention of getting a pool on their property - so we can add it to a register and make sure it is safe.

All private swimming pools need to be fenced unless:

• the maximum depth is less than 400mm
• the walls of the pool are 1.2m or more above the ground with no step-ups, handholds or projections enabling a child to climb.

Yes, The Building Act requires that building consents be obtained for all new swimming pools and for any alterations to existing pools and their barriers or fences.

In addition, properties with pools require a water meter and backflow preventer to be installed at the boundary. You will need to apply for an extraordinary water supply using the water connection/disconnection application form.

Water connection/disconnection application form

The Act sets out the standard of fencing required for compliance. Before constructing a pool fence, please ensure that it will conform to the requirements.

All materials and components must be of a durable nature and be erected to inhibit any person from climbing over or crawling under the fence from the outside.

The checklist in section three of the registration form covers all other aspects of compliance with the Act.

The New Zealand Building Code Clause F9 (F9/AS1 & F9/AS2) provides a range of pool fencing options and introduces layers of protection to many existing pools.

No. Under the Act, the fence must enclose the immediate pool area only. The Building (Pools) Amendment Act 2016 defines immediate pool area. Immediate pool area means the land in or which the pool is situated and so much of the surrounding area as is used for activities carried out in relation to or involving the pool.

The immediate pool area includes:

• the pool
• any paved area around the pool
• any sitting area by the pool
• changing room
• gardens and lawn, if they are obviously part of the pool area and there is a reasonable amount of yard area left outside the fence
• any activities that are used in association with the pool.

The immediate pool area does not include:

• clotheslines and access paths
• vegetable gardens
• general storage sheds, tool sheds or garages
• the entire rear yard
• children's sand pits, play areas or equipment not used in conjunction with the pool.

Yes, the Building Act requires that building consents be obtained for all new swimming pools and for any alterations to existing swimming pools and their barriers/fences.

We will check your proposal (a pre-issue site visit may occur at this stage). When your building consent is approved, you may proceed with the installation of your pool, and then we will inspect the site to ensure the pool fencing complies with the legislation. A fully complying, permanent or temporary fence must be in place prior to the pool being filled.

The inspector will let you know what you need to do to make the fence comply. Until it does comply, the pool must be drained immediately or a fully complying temporary fence erected.

Pool barrier requirements are set out in F9/AS1, F9/AS2 restricting access to residential pools, and F4 Safety from falling (all Building Code Clauses).