Pool barrier planning on house plans: a checklist for owners and building designers

A pool barrier is easier to design in than to fix later. This checklist covers what the plans need to settle.

What the pool fence needs from the plans

Finished ground levels and the 1200mm height

The QBCC says the minimum fence height is 1200mm, measured from finished ground level. The plans should show finished levels around the whole pool, not only at the house, so the fence height can be checked all the way along.

Steps, stairs and the tread nosing

Where the plan has steps beside the pool, the QBCC says to measure stair-side panels from the tread nosing, at right angles, so the fence is at least 1200mm high. It also says the gap under the barrier should be 100mm or less, including at stairways. See the glass pool fence requirements.

Drawings and approvals

A building designer prepares the working drawings and the council approval documents. Francis Design, a Sutherland-based building design practice, is one example of a Sydney practice that prepares development application and complying development documents. Approval rules differ by state, so check the rules for where you are building. In Queensland, ask your designer and certifier what your pool needs.

Choosing frameless or semi-frameless at plan stage

The fence style changes what the pool edge or surround needs to look like. Frameless glass is fixed at the base, and semi-frameless glass sits between slim posts. See frameless vs semi-frameless glass pool fencing, and decide before the paving details are finalised.

Gates, access and sightlines

Gates and latches are part of the pool safety standard, but this guide does not give their measurements because they were not checked against the full standard. Mark the gate position on the plan, think about how people reach the pool from the house, and confirm the gate requirements with your pool safety inspector. Clear glass also keeps the pool visible from the house, which many owners want.

A pool fence planning checklist

1. Show finished ground levels around the whole pool on the plan.
2. Mark every step and stair near the barrier.
3. Choose the glass fence style and tell the builder.
4. Mark the gate position and the route from the house.
5. Check nothing on the outside of the fence gives a foothold. The QBCC says there should be no accessible ledge greater than 10mm on the outside.
6. Confirm approvals and inspections with your certifier or the QBCC.
7. Plan for the pool safety inspection and, later, for the pool safety certificate.

Common questions