Understanding ACT Pool Fence Regulations: Fines, Compliance & Enforcement
Introduction
Pool safety is a legal requirement in the ACT, with updated regulations introduced in 2024 to ensure all pools and spas meet modern safety standards.
What’s new in ACT pool safety laws?
By 1 May 2028, all pools & spas must have compliant barriers under the 2024 ACT pool safety law.
Property owners are responsible for ensuring compliance—including homeowners, landlords, and property sellers.
Fines of up to $5,500 can be issued for non-compliance, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses.
💡 Are you compliant?
This guide covers:
✅ ACT’s updated pool safety laws and what they mean for you
✅ How the ACT Government enforces compliance & issues fines
✅ Steps to ensure your pool fence meets legal requirements
2024 ACT Pool Fence Regulations: What You Need to Know
Under the Building (General) Regulation 2008 and 2024 ACT pool safety law, all swimming pools and spas deeper than 30cm must have a compliant safety barrier by 1 May 2028.
Key Compliance Requirements
Minimum Fence Height – Must be at least 1.2 meters from ground level.
Non-Climbable Zone – Must have 900mm clearance around the fence (no furniture, trees, or climbable objects).
Gate & Latch Rules – Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and open outward from the pool area.
Gaps & Openings – No gaps greater than 100mm under or between fence panels.
Ongoing Maintenance – Pool barriers must be in good condition at all times.
ACT Government: Pool Barrier Requirements & Compliance Overview (2024 Update)
How Is Pool Safety Enforced in the ACT?
The ACT Government & Access Canberra enforce pool safety compliance through:
✔ Pre-Sale Inspections – If you sell a home with a pool, it must pass inspection before listing.
✔ Rental Property Compliance Checks – Landlords must ensure ongoing pool safety compliance for rental properties.
✔ Random Audits & Compliance Notices – The ACT Government conducts random inspections to ensure compliance.
✔ Complaint-Based Inspections – Neighbors and local authorities can report non-compliant pools, triggering an official inspection.
Ignoring compliance can lead to legal action, fines, and enforcement orders.
Penalties for Non-Compliant Pool Fences in the ACT
Failure to comply with pool safety regulations can result in heavy fines.
Current ACT Pool Compliance Fines (2024)
No compliant pool barrier - Up to $5,500
Gate does not self-close or self-latch - Up to $1,500
Climbable objects within the non-climbable zone - Up to $1,500
No compliance certificate when selling a property - Up to $3,000
ACT Government: Pool Fines & Legal Penalties (2024 Update)
How to Ensure Your Pool Fence Meets ACT Compliance
✔ Book a Compliance Inspection – A licensed ACT pool certifier can assess your fence & issue a compliance certificate.
✔ Test Your Gate & Latches – Gates must self-close & self-latch every time.
✔ Measure Fence Gaps – Ensure no opening is wider than 100mm.
✔ Remove Climbable Objects – Keep furniture, trees & decorations away from the fence.
✔ Maintain Your Barrier – Fix rust, loose panels, and broken latches before issues arise.
What to Do If Your Pool Fence Fails an Inspection?
If your pool fails an inspection, you must correct all issues within a set timeframe.
✔ Receive a detailed report outlining the non-compliance issues.
✔ Fix the problems (e.g., adjust the gate, replace fencing, remove climbable objects).
✔ Book a re-inspection to confirm compliance & get your certificate.
Selling a home? It’s best to check compliance before listing your property to avoid last-minute delays.
Final Thoughts: Avoid Fines & Stay Compliant
Ensuring your pool fence meets ACT compliance is crucial for safety, legal protection & peace of mind.
🔗 Book a Pool Fence Compliance Inspection
We provide fast, reliable & certified pool fence inspections in the ACT. Our team helps you pass inspections, avoid fines & ensure compliance.
