Home extension near a pool: keeping the pool fence compliant

An extension or renovation beside the pool changes what is around the fence. Here is what to watch.

How building works affect a pool fence

New walls, decks, steps and garden beds can all change the ground levels and the objects next to the barrier. A deck built up against the fence, for example, can reduce its effective height. The QBCC says the minimum fence height is 1200mm, measured from finished ground level, so any change to finished levels matters.

Footholds and ledges

The QBCC says there should be no accessible ledge greater than 10mm on the outside of the barrier. During building works, stacked materials, ladders and scaffolding can create a foothold, and so can a new planter edge or step. Keep these away from the fence, and check again when the works finish.

If the barrier has to be removed or changed

If part of the pool fence has to come out for the works, you need a temporary barrier in place. The QBCC says temporary fences are for up to 3 months and need inspection and approval. Ask your certifier or the QBCC how this applies to your job, and book the pool safety inspector early.

Check the fence when the works finish

1. Measure the fence height from the new finished ground level at its lowest point.
2. Check the gap under the barrier is 100mm or less, including at any new steps.
3. Look for chips, cracks or shifted panels. The QBCC notes panels can shift or drop when the ground moves.
4. Check nothing new on the outside gives a foothold.

See the glass pool fence requirements for the numbers.

Plan the extension with the pool in mind

Tell the builder about the pool at the start. CKS Projects, a Wollongong builder of home renovations and extensions, is an example of a builder that handles extensions in NSW, where pool rules differ from Queensland, so confirm the rules for your own state.

Common questions