Pool and spa safety inspections services now offered through Council

The new service enables residents to request a pool barrier inspection through Council’s registered building and pool inspectors, saving residents from sourcing inspections independently.  

Anyone in the shire who owns or rents a property with a pool or spa that is capable of holding a depth of 300 millimetres (30 centimetres) or more, requires a compliant fence or barrier around it. This includes around a temporary pool, such as an inflatable pool, that can hold 30 centimetres of water. 

All pools or spas must also be registered with Council and the safety fencing inspected every 4 years, in line with Victorian Government legislation.  

Council’s registered building and pool inspectors can undertake all initial inspections and subsequent safety barrier inspections required. If deemed compliant, they can issue a Certificate of Barrier Compliance (Form 23).  

Cardinia Shire Council Mayor, Cr Jack Kowarzik says the offering seeks to assist residents with maintaining the ongoing operations and inspections of safety barrier and fencing.  

“Pool or spa owners have an obligation to restrict access to the pool or spa for safety measures. This includes ensuring the pools and spa safety barriers are registered with Council and regularly inspected as required. 

“Notices are sent out every four years to pool or spa owners advising their safety barrier and fencing inspections and certificates of barrier compliance are up for renewal, and now through this new offering, those inspections can be arranged in house.”  

These are the precautions that must be taken so we can create a safe environment for everyone to enjoy.”  

Pool safety barrier and fencing inspections arranged through Council incur a cost of $420 and can be arranged via Council’s website Register your backyard swimming pool or spa. 

This service does not substitute the requirement to engage an independent building surveyor. Building surveyor’s must be consulted with before: 

• Building a new pool or spa 
• Arranging for a spa or constructed pool to be delivered to your property 
• Installing a new pool fence/barrier 
• Making changes to existing fence or barrier (unless directed by a registered inspector)  

To understand your obligations as a pool and spa owner, please visit www.vba.vic.gov.au