New swimming pools and spas - What you need to know

If you're planning to install a new swimming pool or spa, there are important safety and legal requirements to be aware of at every stage of the process.

Before Construction

• Safety barriers (both temporary and permanent) must be planned before work begins.
• Pools/spas should be located where they can be easily seen from the home.
• Avoid placing other structures within the pool area.
• Check boundary fence requirements and seek guidance from your local government.
• Building approval is mandatory for all pools and spas.

During Construction

• Unsecured pools pose a serious drowning risk to young children.
• Construction sites must be secured, and children must be kept away.
• Pool construction must comply with the Work Health and Safety Act 2020.
• If a site appears unsafe, discuss concerns with your builder immediately.

On Completion

• The builder must:
  • Install a compliant safety barrier for any pool/spa deeper than 30cm.
  • Submit a BA7 Notice of Completion within 7 days of completing the work.
• Owners must:
  • Arrange an initial inspection of the safety barrier with the Shire of Coolgardie 
  • Ensure the safety barrier remains compliant at all times.

Ongoing Inspections

• All pools and spas with water depth over 30cm must have compliant safety barriers, including portable and temporary pools.
• The Shire of Coolgardie conduct mandatory inspections every four years.
• Inspection costs, including re-inspections for non-compliance, are usually included in annual Rates Notices.

Penalties

• Non-compliant or missing safety barriers pose serious safety risks and may attract significant fines.
• Builders may also be penalised for failing to lodge the BA7 Notice of Completion on time.

Further information and resources

• Rules for pools and spas (Jul 2024) - guidance booklet
• Replace your child-resistant door/s with a safer alternative (Jun 2024) – fact sheet
• Building permits for private swimming pools and pool fences (May 2024) – fact sheet
• Initial inspection of safety barrier to private swimming pools

Contact the Shire

For further information please visit the Shires Customer Service Counters at the Coolgardie Community Recreation Centre or Kambalda Community Recreation Facility or by phoning the Shire on 08 9080 2111 or email mail@coolgardie.wa.gov.au