Gunnedah Shire Council issues reminder that private swimming pools need to comply with safety standard

Homeowners are required to obtain a certificate of compliance before selling or offering a property to rent with a pool. In NSW, a swimming pool or spa is also required to be registered on the NSW Swimming Pool Register.

Additionally, before erecting or installing a new swimming pool, homeowners must obtain either development consent and a construction certificate or a complying development certificate.

“In NSW, an average of 11 children under five years of age drown annually, with a further 62 children being admitted to hospital each year for near drowning. Approximately 70 per cent of drowning deaths occur in swimming pools,” Gunnedah Shire Council’s building and environment manager, Blake O’Mullane said.

“These statistics are a stark reminder of the importance of pool safety. It is extremely important all pool owners check their swimming pools regularly throughout the year, especially in the months leading up to summer to ensure all safety measures are in place.”

In 2014, Gunnedah Shire Council resolved to adopt a Swimming Pool Barrier Inspection Program, following changes to state legislation.

“The aim of the inspection program is to identify swimming pools that are not protected by a child resistant barrier in accordance with legislative standards; to take appropriate action to ensure identified non-compliant swimming pool barriers are brought into compliance with the required standards; and to establish an adopted inspection program as required under Section 22B of the Swimming Pools Act 1992,” Mr O’Mullane said.

“The overall aim being to reduce drowning and near drowning instances of children.”

For more information on requirements for development or building works visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au

Applications for Certificates of Compliance and information on the fees applicable are available by contacting Council on (02) 6740 2100.