Reminder to pool owners to check regulations
Waimate District Council is advising residents to check the requirements of their inflatable and paddling pools this summer to ensure they comply with updated safety regulations.
New pool safety legislation, the Building (Pools) Amendment Act 2016, took effect on 1 January 2017 requiring residential pools that are filled with water to have physical barriers or fencing that restrict unsupervised children under five years of age.
Pools must have a barrier or fencing of at least 1.2 metres in height, including all portable or inflatable type pools that can be filled to a depth of 400mm or more.
Spa and hot tub owners could use safety covers as a barrier where the surface area in 5m² or less and cannot be easily climbed.
Waimate District Council Building Control Manager Stuart Chapman said many people are not aware that inflatable pools and paddling pools that continuously hold water must have appropriate barriers under the new regulations.
“These updated pool regulations affect a large number of pool owners and users of all kinds across our district. With the summer season under way, it is important that people know what the requirements are to keep their family, friends and visitors safe,” he says.
For further information on pool regulations and safety guidance, go to:
