Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of commonly asked questions regarding safety inspections for pool fences. If you cannot find your query or answer here, please get in touch with us.

What are the consequences if an owner chooses not to register their pool or spa?

If a pool or spa is not registered within the mandatory timeframe, the owner of the property that the pool or spa is located can face an on spot fine of $330 or a penalty up to $1652.20.
Can I use perforated material or mesh as part of my pool safety barrier?

Yes, you can use perforated material or mesh for safety barriers. The relevant requirements are identified on the AS 1926.1. For example, when using mesh with apertures greater than 13mm, but less than 100mm, the barrier shall have a height of not less than 1800mm.
Can a boundary fence form part of a pool barrier?

For swimming pool or spa that was constructed before 8 April 1991, a paling or imperforate fence complies with the relevant requirements if it is at least 1·5 m in height measured above the ground level on the approach side. Otherwise, a boundary fence can form part of the pool barrier where it has min 1.8m height and non climbable area of not less than 900mm radius down from the top of the inside of the barrier.
Can I have a climbable object inside my pool area near the fence?

All barriers with vertical openings 10-100mm in width require non climbable area of 900mm high by 300mm deep rectangular space on the inside of the barrier which is identified as NCZ 4.
Can you provide more examples of non climbable zones (NCZ)?

The following examples are applicable to pools built after 30 April 2010:
Can a barrier have a surface projections and/or indentations?

For a barrier having random projections the following applies:
How can we build a fence on a slope or step surface?

The following pictures show you how to comply with the pool barrier requirements on a slope or a step surface areas:
Can gates swing towards a pool area?

No! Gates shall be installed so that they only swing outwards and away from the pool area.
What are the requirements for a location of the latch?

The following pictures are some of the requirements identified in the standard for location of the latch that is located at a height less than 1500mm above finish ground level:
What are the requirements for a retaining wall that acts as a pool barrier?

The following pictures are highlighting some of the critical requirements for a retaining wall that forms part of a pool barrier.
What is the process if a pool fence is non-compliant?

If we find the barrier is non-compliant, we will send you a report specifying the non-compliant matters and the relevant requirements of the applicable standard. Where we find an imminent danger, we must issue a certificate of pool and barrier non-compliant. Once you carry out the relevant remedial works, you need to arrange for another inspection. That process shall not take longer than the time specified by our inspector, for which the regulatory time frame is a maximum of 60 days. After re-inspection, we can issue a certificate of barrier compliance if we determine that the pool barrier is compliant. You must then lodge the certificate with your local council. Suppose the barrier remains non-compliant, but we are satisfied that progress has been made towards bringing the barrier into compliance. In that case, we will allow you an additional seven days to rectify the issues. Otherwise, we must issue a certificate of barrier non-compliance.
Where is your Pool Fence Inspection Area in Victoria?

We provide pool fence inspection services in the following Melbourne metro areas.
Please provide a swimming pool safety barrier guide & options to AS1926.1-2012.