Pool and Spa Deadlines
Upcoming Pool Registration Deadlines
On 1 December 2019, new Victorian laws to improve swimming pool and spa safety came into effect in Victoria. It is now mandatory for owners of land where a swimming pool or spa is located to register their pool or spa with the relevant council.
These laws apply to swimming pools and spas that are capable of holding more than 300mm (30cm) of water. This includes permanent pools, above ground pools, indoor pools, hot tubs, bathing or wading pools and some relocatable pools.
Upcoming Deadlines for Registration
Victorian backyard pool and spa owners have until 1 November 2020 to register their pool or spa with their local council.
Pools and spas constructed after 1 November 2021 must be registered within 30 days after issue of occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection.
If the relocatable pool or spa was erected before 1 November 2020 and remains erected for at least 3 consecutive days immediately before 1 November 2020 the pool or spa owner has until 4 November 2020 to register their pool.
For relocatable pools or spas erected after 1 November 2020 pool or spa owners have until the fourth day after the pool is erected to register the pool.
Fines apply for pool and spa owners who do not register their pool or spa.
Certificates of Barrier of Compliance for Pools and Spas
For pools and spas constructed on or after 1 November 2020, a certificate of barrier compliance is due within 30 days of occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection. This certificate must accompany an application for registration. The next certificate of compliance is due four years after registration.
Pools or spas with construction dates before 1 November 2020 must comply with the following dates to lodge their certificates of barrier of compliance:
- For pools and spas constructed on or before 30 June 1994, a certificate of barrier compliance must be lodged by 1 November 2021
- For pools and spas constructed between 1 July 1994 and 1 May 2010, a certificate of barrier compliance must be lodged by 1 November 2022
- For pools and spas constructed between 1 May 2010 and 31 May 2020, a certificate of barrier compliance must be lodged by 1 November 2023.
Property managers should ensure that evidence of compliance with these requirements are maintained in the landlord’s file.