When installing a new pool or spa, you should engage a builder registered in an appropriate category or class to do the work.
You can choose to be an owner-builder; however, you will need to apply for a certificate of consent from the VBA for work over $16,000. For more information, visit Owner-builders.
You will need a building permit before installing a pool, spa or safety barrier unless the work is exempt. The owner of the property must appoint a registered building surveyor (private or municipal) to issue the building permit. See Appointing a building surveyor.
You may also need a planning permit or other permit. Check with the relevant council about any local laws that may apply.
The building permit application must include detailed drawings and specifications of the proposed pool, spa, safety barrier and water recirculation and filtration systems. The drawings must show how the design complies with the National Construction Code (NCC) and the relevant standards, including AS1926 Part 1 (Safety barriers for swimming pools), Part 2 (Location of safety barriers for swimming pools) and Part 3 (Water recirculation systems).
The building permit application must list the building practitioners who prepared these documents.
Building work on new pools, spas and safety barriers must start within 12 months of the date the building permit is issued.
After building work starts, it must be completed within six months or, if other work is being carried out at the same time on the property, it can be completed in the same time frame as the other building work.
If building work is under way but may not be complete within the approved time frame, the relevant building surveyor may arrange a permit extension upon application by the owner. Any extension is at the building surveyor’s discretion.
Work on a swimming pool, spa or barrier cannot continue if the permit has lapsed.
In this situation the owner is responsible to ensure the pool or spa is not a danger to life or safety while the works are stalled. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure a compliant barrier is in place around the pool and/or spa.
This may be achieved by installing a compliant temporary fence. For further information speak with your relevant building surveyor or local council regarding your situation.
If you wish to continue with construction, you may seek a new building permit from the same building surveyor.
If construction has not begun and you don’t want to go ahead with the work, you should notify the VBA and local council that the work has been terminated.
Once your pool or spa is built, you must register it with council. You must also arrange inspection of the safety barrier by a qualified professional and provide a compliance certificate to council.
Fines apply for failing to register your pool or spa.
