Thinking of buying a portable pool this summer?
- If your pool can hold water to a depth of 400mm and is under 1200mm high, you will require a consented pool barrier.
- If the pool is accessed by a portable ladder, it must be enclosed by a complying barrier and gate.
- Ensure there are no other climbable items near the pool that can be used to access the pool.
- Apply for a Smart Water Plan to fill your pool between December and February.
Contact our Pool Safety Compliance team if you have any questions – 07 577 7000 or pools@tauranga.govt.nz
The cost of fencing should always be considered before purchasing any pool. We understand that fencing a pool is an added cost, however, it is a legal requirement under the Building Act (2004). The rule exists to prevent unsupervised children from drowning in your pool.
More information on swimming pool barriers
Or get in touch with one of our pool inspectors—email pools@tauranga.govt.nz
We understand that many of these pools are only up during the peak of summer. However, it only takes an unsupervised child 30 seconds to drown.
Fencing can also be temporary if it is compliant.
More information on swimming pool barriers
No. Our priority is to make sure there are no preventable drownings in our city. Unfenced pools, whether portable or permanent, pose a serious risk. Central Government recognises this hazard, which is why the Building Act 2004 requires all pools less than 1200mm high to be properly fenced. These rules are about safety, not revenue.
Not only could an unsupervised child drown, but you could also receive a $500 fine for failing to comply with the Building Act.
No, there is no inspection fee for portable pools.
Spa pools and hot tubs are deemed ‘small heated pools’ and must have a child-resistant cover to be compliant. The spa pool cover must:
- Restrict the entry of children when closed.
- Be able to withstand a reasonably foreseeable load.
- Be able to be readily returned to the closed position.
- Have signage indicating its child safety features.
More information on swimming pool barriers
Ponds:
Under the Building Act, ponds do not need to be fenced as they are not classed as a vessel intended for bathing.
Our Pool Safety Compliance team will be taking an educational approach. They will work with pool owners to understand what they need to do to ensure their pool is safe.
Our pool safety compliance staff are happy to offer advice specific to your pool and property. However, you may need to talk to a local builder or pool barrier supplier/installer for practical installation and maintenance work.