Swimming Pools, Spas and Safety Barriers
A swimming pool or spa is any structure capable of holding more than 300mm of water used for swimming, wading or paddling.
This includes permanent, temporary, portable, above‑ground and in‑ground pools and spas.
Ponds and dams are not classified as swimming pools or spas and do not require a safety barrier.
Building Permits
A Building Permit is required to install, construct or place a swimming pool or spa capable of holding more than 300mm of water, including inflatable and portable pools.
For application requirements, refer to the Swimming Pool / Spa Checklist.
Safety Barrier Requirements
All private swimming pools and spas must have a compliant safety barrier installed in accordance with:
- Building Regulations 2012
- Australian Standard AS1926.1
For design and compliance information, refer to the Rules for Pools and Spas booklet Rules for Pools and Spas.
For pre‑installation advice, contact Building Services:
- Phone: 08 9729 0300
- Email: shire@harvey.wa.gov.au
Safety Barrier Inspections
The Shire of Harvey is required to inspect pool and spa safety barriers.
Mandatory inspection timeframes:
- New pools/spas: within 30 days
- Non‑compliant barriers: within 60 days
- Ongoing inspections: within 4 years
To book an inspection, email: pools@harvey.wa.gov.au
Removing or Decommissioning a Pool or Spa
Pools or spas no longer in use must be decommissioned or removed. Full removal of the pool / spa structure is preferred.
Minimum requirements generally include:
- Removing liners, ladders and filtration systems
- Cutting holes on the bottom of the pool or spa to allow draining of stormwater
Notification to the Shire
You must notify the Shire in writing when a pool or spa has been removed or decommissioned.
The Shire’s swimming pool Inspector will attend your property to observe the decommissioned pool or spa and provide a report so the annual Swimming Pool Inspection Fee will be removed from your rates notice.
Demolition Permits
A Demolition Permit is required if a pool being removed is larger than 40m².
Reporting Unsafe Pools or Spas
To report an unsafe or unfenced swimming pool or spa, contact Building Compliance:
- Phone: 08 9729 0329
- Email: buildingcompliance@harvey.wa.gov.au
More information and contacts
For more information on swimming pools and spas, please contact us.
The Department of Mines, Industry Regulations and Safety web page on Swimming, spa and portable pools provides some useful publications and videos, including:
-
- Rules for pools and spas – May 2016
- Rules for portable pools – August 2018
- Thinking of installing a swimming pool or spa? (obtaining building approval) – September 2016
- Swimming pools and spas: electrical bonding – August 2018
- Danger – Swimming pool under construction – November 2018
- Do not pin the gate open – December 2018
- Simple pool safety checklist for residents – March 2020
