How High Does A Pool Fence Need To Be? Pool Fence Regulations
When you’re installing a new fence, it’s important you choose a product that meets regulations. Pool fences need to comply with certain rules to be deemed safe. Wondering how high a fence needs to be around your pool? We’ve prepared this helpful blog to ensure you choose a safe, compliant fencing option.
Why are there so many pool regulations?
Backyard drownings or accidents aren’t as uncommon as you might think, and the cause can often be attributed to non-compliant pool fencing. Perhaps a gate has been left open accidentally, a pool fence is short enough to climb, or there are climbable objects within reach of the fence or barrier – all possible points of access to a pool area for a curious child.
While it’s important to monitor your pool area whenever there are kids around, sometimes you can simply be distracted. With compliant pool fencing, you’ll give yourself the peace of mind that your pool area is protected and your kids are kept safe from harm.
How high does a pool fence need to be?
According to Queensland government regulations, all pools must be contained by a well-maintained fence or barrier of at least 1.2 metres in height. If there are any gaps or openings in the fence, they need to be more than 100 metres wide.
These specifications are in place to prevent any child from climbing the fence. If you own a pool or own a rental property with a pool installed, it is your responsibility to ensure the fencing complies.
Other important regulations
Fencing dimensions don’t just refer to the fence itself; they also take into account the barrier and non-climbable zone around the pool. This zone must cover 900mm from the pool barrier, surround the entire pool, and be situated on the outside of your fence if it’s less than 1800mm high. Within this zone, you need to ensure that any outdoor furniture, objects, branches, retaining walls, or pot plants that measure more than 10mm across are removed. These regulations are in place to eliminate the risk of children finding a way to climb the fence and enter the pool area.
Pool fences are also required to have a self-closing and self-locking gate that opens away from the pool. Latches should also be placed a minimum of 1500mm above the ground in order to comply. With a self-locking gate, you won’t run the risk of accidentally leaving the gate open when entering or exiting the pool area. It’s crucial you maintain your gate by inspecting it regularly and replacing or repairing a broken hinge or faulty latch.
Pools areas also need to contain a large, visible CPR sign to guide you in the event of an accident.
If you have windows that open out into your pool area, it’s important you install secure screens to prevent a child from entering your pool area via an open window.
Contact us today
For quality-made glass pool fencing that complies with all the government regulations, choose Frameless Glass Installations. Operating out of the Sunshine Coast, we pride ourselves on our outstanding products and commitment to quality customer service.
Whether you’re updating your home or need help with commercial development, our experienced team is on hand to provide quality advice and assistance and install a product that exceeds your expectations.
Give us a call today on 07 5479 0003 to speak to our team, hear more about us and what we do, or arrange a free estimate, site measure or quote for your project.