Pools, tanks and dams

Find out what Council permissions you might need for pools, tanks and dams.

Building consent requirements

Storage tanks and pools don't require a building consent if they meet requirements for capacity and height-above-ground provided that the following is true:

1. does not exceed 500 litres capacity and is supported not more than 4 metres above the supporting ground; or
2. does not exceed 1,000 litres capacity and is supported not more than 3 metres above the supporting ground; or
3. does not exceed 2,000 litres capacity and is supported not more than 2 metres above the supporting ground; or
4. does not exceed 4,000 litres capacity and is supported not more than 1 metre above the supporting ground; or
5. does not exceed 8,000 litres capacity and is supported not more than 0.5 metres above the supporting ground; or
6. does not exceed 16,000 litres capacity and is supported not more than 0.25 metres above the supporting ground; or
7. does not exceed 35,000 litres capacity and is supported directly by ground.

Note: There are separate requirements for restricting access to residential pools.

More information about building consents

Resource consent requirements

Many building projects may also require a resource consent. As part of the building consent process, applications are reviewed by a planner who can highlight any potential requirements, and provide some advice on what might be needed. You can also contact our duty planner, or read more about where a resource consent may be required below and avoid any potential delays to your project.

More information about resource consents

Pool safety barriers

As a pool owner, you have many responsibilities to ensure your pool is safe for those who use it. One of those responsibilities is ensuring your swimming pool has an appropriate pool safety barrier.