September 6, 2022
All swimming pools or spas that can hold 30cm or more of water – even temporary inflatable pools – must have a compliant swimming pool safety barrier in place at all times.
The warning, issued by Toowoomba Regional Council, applies to all council areas in Queensland and reflects pool safety laws that have been in place since December 1, 2015.
“If you have recently moved to a property with a pool and are unsure if the fencing complies with the standards, please engage a Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licenced Pool Safety Inspector to ensure you have a barrier that is safe,” Cr Tim McMahon said.
“Don’t wait until a child’s life is endangered on your property. Council regards community safety, particularly that of young children as a top priority and won’t hesitate to take enforcement action when it is compromised.
“All residential swimming pools must have a Building Approval for the Swimming Pool and Pool Safety Barrier and they must be registered with the QBCC.”
Cr McMahon said home owners could check or register their properties on the QBCC pool safety register
“If you are selling or buying a property with a swimming pool, please check the requirements,” Cr McMahon said.
“Property owners are still required to maintain a compliant barrier at all times, even if this means erecting a temporary pool fence that complies with the requirements while the permanent fence undergoes maintenance.
“Residents who are unsure about any of these safety aspects can find further information online
“Council will enforce the law if it is made aware of inadequately fenced pools, however this is not an issue of compliance. The pool safety laws are about saving lives.
“Inflatables are in some ways more dangerous than bigger pools, due to the low set-up costs, collapsible sides and a lack of education when they are sold at retail outlets.
“More importantly, residents with inflatable pools, or any pool, must supervise their children when they are near water.”
