Advice

If you own or are purchasing a portable pool, it is important you are aware of the requirements and comply with them. Safety is key, especially if there are young children around the water.

Any pool that can hold 40cm (400mm) or more of water needs a barrier to restrict small children under 5 years of age from accidentally accessing the pool. The type of barrier required will depend on the type of pool. If you need a barrier, it must meet strict requirements and may require a building consent.

‍

Inflatable, portable and temporary pools:

If you have a pool that can hold 40cm or more of water, it must have physical barriers

(eg fence or wall) that restrict access by unsupervised children under 5 years of age. This still

applies even if you don’t fill your pool all the way up, or only plan to use it for a short time.

Above ground pools:

The outside face of a pool wall can be a barrier if it is:

• at least 120cm (1.2m) high
• free from any features that could assist a child in climbing.

Note: ladders, pumps, or steps giving access to the pool will need a barrier or gate which will

require a building consent.

Spa pools & hot tubs:

Safety covers can be a barrier that restrict access, provided:

• the cover can be fastened on all sides with lockable snap fasteners
• they withstand a load of 20kg at the centre of the cover
• they can be readily returned to the closed position
• the pool has a water surface area 5m2 or less
• the side walls of the pool are at least 76cm (760mm) high above the floor and cannot
• be easily climbed.

For more information:

Go to www.building.govt.nz/PoolSafety

Contact your local council. Your council keeps a record of all pools, and pool barriers are required to be inspected every 3 years.