QLD Pool Permits & Requirements

Thinking of installing a swimming pool? There’s no better way to complete your backyard, add value to your home and be the envy of the neighbourhood on those hot summer days.

While a pool can be an amazing asset to your property and lifestyle, it can also pose a danger to pets and young children, so it’s no surprise that there are some guidelines and regulations to ensure your pool is safe.

Let’s have a deeper look at the pool construction permits required in Queensland:

Planning and Building Permits

Swimming pools do not require planning approvals in a residential zone. A building permit, however, is required prior to the construction or installation of any swimming pool or spa that will contain more than 300mm/30cm of water.

At Burleigh Pools, we believe there is nothing more important than ensuring the safety of small children around swimming pools, so we take every precaution to ensure your swimming pool or spa will comply with the relevant legislation.

Applying for a Building Permit

Anyone can apply for a building permit – the owner, pool builder, or barrier installer. The person named as the builder on a building permit for the pool and safety barrier takes on the responsibility for ensuring the work complies with the regulations.

Before a building permit is granted by a permit authority (usually the relevant local government), a registered building surveyor is required to confirm that the proposed pool and its safety barrier comply with the applicable building standards.

Steps to apply for a building permit

To obtain a building permit, the following process is typically followed:

1. Engagement of a Registered Building Surveyor:

   Before a building permit is issued, it is essential to engage a registered building surveyor. This professional will assess the proposed pool or spa along with its safety barrier to ensure compliance with applicable building standards.

    

2. Evaluation of Building Standards:

   The registered building surveyor evaluates several key aspects to ensure compliance:

• Structural Adequacy: The surveyor examines the structural integrity of the pool or spa to ensure it meets safety requirements.

• Water Recirculation System: The efficiency and functionality of the water recirculation system are assessed to maintain water quality and safety.

• Energy Efficiency: Consideration is given to the energy efficiency of heating and pumping systems to minimize environmental impact and operational costs.

• Water Efficiency: The surveyor verifies that the pool or spa design promotes water efficiency, contributing to sustainable usage practices.

• Safety Barrier: Inspection of the safety barrier is crucial to prevent unauthorised access and ensure the safety of individuals, particularly children and pets.

   

3. Submission to Permit Authority:

   Once the building surveyor confirms compliance with the building standards, the application, along with the surveyor's report, is submitted to the relevant permit authority. This is typically the local government overseeing building regulations.

    

4. Granting of Building Permit:

   Upon review of the application and supporting documentation, the permit authority grants the building permit if all requirements are met. This permit authorises the construction or installation of the pool or spa, signalling approval to proceed with the project.

By following this process and ensuring adherence to building standards, individuals can obtain the necessary building permit to proceed with their pool or spa construction project.

Do I Need Permission from My Neighbours?

If you meet all of the requirements of a Complying Development Certificate, you do not need to notify your neighbours about your swimming pool installation plans. If your swimming pool construction project requires a Development Application, your neighbours will be notified via the council.

Safety Measures

Ensuring the safety of your pool area is paramount, especially when it comes to protecting young children and pets from potential hazards. One of the primary safety measures mandated by Queensland regulations is the installation of a safety barrier.

Also read: Pool Fencing Laws In Australia

When do I need to install a safety barrier?

Before any pool is filled with water greater than 300mm in depth, it's imperative to have a safety barrier in place. This applies to new pool installations and existing pools undergoing renovations or repairs.

The purpose of the safety barrier is to prevent unauthorized access to the pool area, reducing the risk of accidents, particularly involving young children. Whether the barrier is temporary or permanent, it must comply with stringent barrier regulations set forth by Queensland authorities.

Inspection to Certify Your Pool

Once your pool construction is complete, it's crucial to have a final inspection conducted to get a pool safety certificate stating the pool's compliance with safety standards and regulations. The building certifier who approved your pool building approval will perform this inspection.

During the inspection, a licensed Pool Safety Inspector will thoroughly examine the pool fence and any other safety features to ensure they meet the pool safety standards. This includes verifying that the fence height, gate operation, and any warning signs are by regulations.

If the pool passes the inspection, the certifier will issue either a Form 17—final inspection certificate for pools and barriers or a Form 11—certificate of occupancy for a building with a regulated pool. These documents serve as official certification that your pool meets all necessary safety requirements.

Contact Burleigh Pools

At Burleigh Pools, we are award-winning pool builders with a wealth of experience in creating beautiful and functional pools, complete with landscaping, fencing, and more. We handle all necessary certificates and approvals with the council, ensuring a seamless process for our clients.

We are dedicated to meeting your budget and bringing your dream pool to life. Call us today on (07) 2102 7521 to schedule your consultation and let us bring your vision to reality!