Swimming pool and spa owners take note of new rules

Published on 08 May 2020

Baw Baw Shire Council has already received nearly 200 applications from property owners to register their swimming pools and spas, following the introduction of State Government regulations in December 2019.

The new regulations have been introduced to keep young children safe from drowning. Since 2000, 27 young children have drowned in private swimming pools and spas. In at least 20 of those cases, the coroner found that non-compliance of the safety barrier was a contributing factor.

The regulations require property owners to register private pools and spas that can hold water to a depth greater than 30cm with Council.

Owners are also required to have a registered building surveyor or inspector certify that their pool or spa safety barrier is compliant every four years.

Pool and spa owners in Baw Baw Shire are encouraged to visit the Council website for more information, including the safety barrier inspection process, certificate requirements, guidelines and the application form.

The one-off fee for pools or spas constructed before 1 June 2020 is $79, which is payable at the time of registration.

Although the State Government has not provided any changes to the legislated dates that require all pool and spa owners to register by 1 June 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic Baw Baw Shire will extend the registration period for owners of existing swimming pools and spas until 1 October 2020. Meaning non-registration infringements will be not considered until after 1 October 2020. The infringement amount for non-registration is $330.44.

For more information visit www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/poolsandspas

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Danny Goss

“We know that safety barriers save lives, and this legislation will make sure that the 1400 pools and spas in Baw Baw Shire are compliant and safe. If you are one of these property owners, please make sure you follow the guidelines and start the registration process before October.”