City of Cockburn - Wetlands to Waves

Swimming Pools, Spas & Safety Barriers

Private swimming pools, spas and associated safety barriers are required to comply with the requirements of the Building Code of Australia, Building Regulations 2012 and the Australian Standard 1926 Part 1, 2 and 3.

There are varying requirements for swimming pool/spa safety barriers depending on the age of the swimming pool/spa and in some instances upgrading if a property inclusive of a swimming pool/spa is sold.

Prior to the construction of a swimming pool or spa approval must be sought from the City of Cockburn and approval obtained by way of a Building Permit (visit Building Permit application requirements on this web site). All property owners are required to provide a compliant safety barrier around their pool or spa.

All building permit applications (BA2) must include full details of the safety barrier being provided around the pool or spa. If the pool or spa builder/installer is not going to install the required safety barrier then a seperate building permit application is required to be submitted by the owner or their nominated contractor to enable a permit for the safety barrier to be issued at the same time as the permit for the pool or spa.

It is strongly recommended a Building Permit be obtained for the following reasons:

1. Should a property containing an unauthorised swimming pool or spa be offered for sale, and the unauthorised pool or spa comes to the attention of a prospective purchaser, it could jeopadise the sale or delay the settlement of the property.
   
2. In such a situation (as defined in 1) it is likely the matter would be brought to the City's attention and the legislative issues would also need to be addressed with the pool/spa owner.
     
3. The City carries out annual aerial photography of all properties within the City of Cockburn.   

The City of Cockburn has a legislative obligation to ensure swimming Pools and spas within the district are inspected at least once every four years to ensure swimming pool/spa safety barriers are compliant with legislative requirements.

The State of Western Australia has implemented the legislation controlling the installation of swimming pools/spas and safety barriers.  Enforcement of this legislation is the obligation of Local Governments throughout the State.

Further information and the relevant forms are available for download on this webpage and links.