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The Victorian Government has introduced new laws to improve swimming pool and spa safety across the state.
Under the new laws, which came into effect on 1 December 2019, owners of land where a swimming pool or spa is located must register their pool or spa with their local council.
Owners then need to obtain and lodge compliance certificates for the safety barriers around their pools and spas.
What pools or spas do the new laws apply to?
The new laws apply to swimming pools and spas that can hold more than 30cm of water. This includes permanent pools, above ground pools, indoor pools, hot tubs, bathing or wading pools and some relocatable pools.
Do the new laws apply to all relocatable pools?
Relocatable pools that do not have multiple components and do not require any assembly are not subject to the barrier requirements. An example is a small inflatable pool that requires no assembly other than inflation.
How do pool owners register?
Owners can register their pool or spa with the City of Ballarat by visiting City of Ballarat eServices, clicking the Permits and Registers drop down menu and select Apply for a Permit or Register Pool/Spa.
How long do pool owners have to register my pool or spa?
Pools and spas must be registered with the City of Ballarat by 1 June 2020.
Certification
Property owners will also need to have their swimming pool and spa barriers inspected and certified by a registered building surveyor or a registered building inspector every 4 years.
This will state whether the barrier of a swimming pool or spa complies with the applicable requirements.
How much time do pool and spa owners have to have inspections and certificates of barrier compliance lodged?
These requirements vary, depending on when the pool or spa was installed.
The owner must then provide a copy of the certificate of compliance to Council by the following dates;
Pool/spa construction date Compliance certificate must be lodged by
On or before 30 June 1994 1 June 2021
From 1 June 1994 until 30 April 2010 1 June 2022
From 1 May 2010 until 31 May 2020 1 June 2023
Pools and spas constructed on or after 1 June 2020
The first certificate of barrier compliance will be due within 30 days of occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection.
This certificate must accompany your application for registration.
More information about the new requirements can be found at the City of Ballarat website:
ballarat.vic.gov.au/property/building/pools-and-spas-safety
Further details are also available at the Victorian Building Authority website:
vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/swimming-pools.