Swimming pools

Swimming pool safety laws apply in NSW, including Ku-ring-gai, to help prevent drownings and to assist in the event of an emergency.

A swimming pool is defined as a structure that can be filled with 300mm of water or more and is used for swimming or other water activities.

Pools include:

concrete and fibreglass swimming pools;
inflatable swimming pools;
temporary or wading pools;
above-ground pools and spas.

This page explains how Ku-ring-gai property owners can deliver a safer swimming pool environment.

Swimming pool registration

If you are building or installing a pool, you must register your swimming pool on the NSW Swimming Pool Register. In addition, in-ground pools, portable swimming pools of any kind and spas must comply with the Swimming Pools Act 1992 and various safety requirements.

Pay a $10 fee to Council and we will register it on your behalf.

Swimming pool self-checklist

The NSW Swimming Pool Register includes a self-assessment checklist to allow the owners of various types of swimming pools to undertake the necessary steps to ensure their pool complies with NSW laws.

This includes ensuring warning signs and resuscitation signs are installed in a prominent location in clear view of the swimming pool.

Swimming pool barriers and inspections

The Swimming Pools Act 1992 requires private swimming pool owners to ensure their pool is at all times surrounded by a child-resistant barrier that separates the swimming pool from the property as well as any public or private place adjoining the property.

A pool owner may use an accredited certifier to inspect the swimming pool barrier and issue a compliance certificate for a compliant barrier which is valid for three years. If you want Council to inspect and issue a certificate of compliance, complete the Building Certificates - Swimming Pool Barrier Inspection application and pay the $150 fee.

For reinspection of a barrier under a Council swimming pool barrier application, call 9424 0000 to have the $100 reinspection fee raised.

Note: You will need your application number for online payment.

Exemptions

In limited circumstances, Council may issue exemptions under the Swimming Pools Act, 1992.

Exemptions may be granted due to the physical nature of the premises, design, construction or location of the swimming pool or because of special circumstances. One example is an adult with a disability who would be significantly impeded in accessing the pool if the swimming pool barrier was installed in accordance with the Act.

There are other exemptions that apply to pools built before 1 August 1990, pools on sites larger than 2 hectares, pools on sites less than 230 sqm, waterfront properties, indoor pools and spa pools.

Apply for a Swimming Pool Barrier Exemption. There is a $250 fee applicable.