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NSW pool fencing rules and requirements
These pages summarise current NSW Government guidance in our own words. They are general information. The rule that applies can change with the pool, the property, the construction date and whether the barrier has been modified. Confirm details with the relevant council, a registered certifier or the official sources below.
How high does a pool fence need to be in NSW?
NSW Government guidance states that a pool fence must be at least 1.2 m high, measured from finished ground level. If a boundary fence forms part of the pool barrier, that barrier must be 1.8 m high.
What is the minimum gap under a pool fence in NSW?
NSW Government guidance says the gap under a pool fence must not be bigger than 10 cm from finished ground level, and gaps between vertical bars must not be more than 10 cm.
What is a non-climbable zone around a pool fence?
NSW Government guidance says objects such as trees, shrubs, barbecues, pots, toys, ladders and chairs must stay out of a 90 cm non-climbable zone, measured in an arc from the top of the fence, with a further 30 cm inside the pool area kept clear of footholds.
What are the rules for pool gates in NSW?
NSW Government guidance says a pool gate should swing away from the pool, shut by itself from any open position, and latch itself when it closes. It should not be propped open.
Can a Colorbond boundary fence be used as a pool barrier?
It can form part of a pool barrier only if that fence meets the barrier rules that apply, including the 1.8 m height noted by the NSW Government when a boundary fence is part of the pool fence. A standard dividing fence is not automatically suitable.
Can I extend a Colorbond fence for a pool?
Yes, an extension is a common way to add height to an existing fence, using sheet infill, louvre, slat or lattice. The extension has to be designed for the pool barrier. It does not, by itself, make the fence compliant.
Does a NSW pool need a CPR sign?
Yes. The NSW Government requires a CPR sign near the pool, readable from 3 m and kept in good condition. Updated signage applies to new pools from 1 September 2019, and to existing pools when the barrier is substantially altered or rebuilt.
Does registering a pool mean the fence complies?
No. The NSW Government states that registering a pool does not mean it meets compliance requirements. Compliance is assessed by inspection. Councils and registered certifiers carry out that role.
Do older NSW pools use the same fence rules?
Not always. The NSW Government says the applicable version of AS 1926 can depend on when the pool was built: 1986 for many pools before 30 August 2008, the 2007 standard for pools from 1 September 2008 to 30 April 2013, and AS 1926.1-2012 for pools constructed after 1 May 2013.
Do slopes, retaining walls and windows change pool fence rules?
They can. Height is measured from finished ground, so a slope changes the number. Retaining walls, steps and objects are commonly required to stay clear of the barrier. Windows and doors are no longer an acceptable substitute for a pool fence on the current NSW Government guidance for that older practice.
Official NSW Government information
Pool fencing requirements can depend on the pool, property, barrier configuration, construction date and applicable legislation/standards. Information on this website is provided as general guidance and should not replace advice from the relevant NSW authority, council, certifier or qualified professional. For an installation project, our team can assess the site and identify potential fencing and access issues before installation.