New Laws
In 2012, a comprehensive review of the Swimming Pools Act 1992 was finalised. This review identified a number of amendments designed to enhance the safety of children under the age of five years around private (‘backyard’) swimming pools in NSW.
The new laws will include:
Online Pool Register
Pool owners must register their swimming pool and/or spa pool in a State-wide pool register from 29 April 2013. Pool owners will have 6 months to ensure their pool is registered (by 29 October 2013) Penalties will apply for failing to register. Registrations will be available through www.dlg.nsw.gov.au and are free of charge.
If unable to access the internet, Pittwater pool owners can visit Council’s Customer Service during business hours and Council can assist in registering their pool.
Selling or leasing a property with a pool
From 29 April 2014, a pool owner must obtain a Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate before they can sell or lease their property.
Tourist and visitor accommodation
A Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate is required for properties on which there is tourist and visitor accommodation or more than 2 dwellings at least once every 3 years. This requirements starts from 29 April 2014.
Owners may request an inspection at any time
Pool owners can make an application to Council for a Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate at any time, regardless of whether they intend on selling or leasing their property.
The Certificate will be valid for 3 years, so long as the fencing remains compliant in that time.
Council’s mandatory inspection program
Council will develop and implement a swimming pool barrier inspection program in consultation with our community (by 29 October 2013)
Report annually (via Council’s Annual Report) on the number of pool inspections undertaken and the level of compliance with the requirement
Quick summary of changes
| Now | Pool owners may apply for a Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate from Council. Applications forms are available on Council’s website https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/council/forms/swimming-pool-compliance-certificate |
| 29 April 2013 | Pool owners must commence registering their swimming pool. |
| 29 April 2014 | Tourist and visitor accommodation must make an application for a Swimming pool Compliance Certificate. |
| 29 October 2013 | Councils mandatory inspection program commences. |
| 29 April 2014 | Properties for sale or lease must obtain a Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate before they sell or lease. |
