A swimming pool is defined as any structure that:

Can be filled with water to a depth of 300mm or more.

Is primarily used for swimming, wading, paddling, or similar activities.

This includes:

Inground and above-ground pools.

Spas and hot tubs.

Portable or inflatable pools (if they hold 300mm or more of water).

Note: Fishponds or structures used solely for ornamental purposes are not considered swimming pools, unless they are also used for swimming.

Queensland’s pool safety laws apply to all pools, including those at:

Private homes.

Unit complexes.

Hotels, motels, and backpacker accommodations.

Caravan parks and mobile van parks.

If you own a property with a pool, you must:

Register your pool with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

Ensure your pool fence meets the pool barrier safety standards.

Maintain your pool fence to comply with safety standards at all times.

Obtain a pool safety certificate if you are selling or leasing your property.

Keep pool gates closed and ensure they are self-latching.

Remove any objects near the pool fence that children could use to climb into the pool area.

Failure to comply can result in fines.

If you rent a property with a pool, you must:

Keep pool gates closed at all times.

Never prop open a pool gate.

Remove any objects near the pool fence that children could use to climb into the pool area.

Report any broken or non-compliant pool fences to your landlord immediately.

If your pool fence is unsafe, you can also report it to your local council.

Yes. If your portable or inflatable pool can hold 300mm or more of water, it must comply with Queensland’s pool safety laws, including having a compliant pool fence.

A pool safety certificate is an official document that confirms your pool complies with Queensland’s safety standards. You need one if:

You are selling or leasing your property.

You want to ensure your pool is safe and compliant.

Our licensed pool safety inspectors can provide a thorough inspection and issue a certificate if your pool meets the required standards.

Pool safety certificates are valid for:

1 year for shared pools

2 years for non-shared pools.

Here are some tips to improve your pool’s safety:

Ensure your pool fence is at least 1200mm high and free from climbable objects.

Adjust gate hinges to ensure they are self-closing and self-latching.

Trim tree branches and vegetation within 900mm of the pool fence.

Secure moveable objects near the pool area.

Install window locks or security screens on windows that open directly into the pool area.

Regularly inspect and maintain your pool fence to ensure ongoing compliance.

If your pool fence does not meet safety standards, contact a licensed pool safety inspector immediately. We can provide expert advice and solutions to bring your pool into compliance.

If you notice an unsafe or non-compliant pool, you can report it to your local council. This is especially important in rental properties, where many drownings or near-drownings occur.

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under 5 in Australia. Many of these tragedies occur in backyard pools. By ensuring your pool is safe and compliant, you can help prevent accidents and protect your loved ones.