Pool Inspections and Safety

Drowning is a major cause of the accidental death of young children in New Zealand. Many drownings happen in private homes; in unfenced or inadequately fenced swimming and spa pools. It is estimated that with the adequate fencing of pools, as least half of such deaths would have been prevented.

Making your Pool Safe

The Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 requires that every private swimming and spa pool be properly fenced. It places the responsibility with councils to ensure this happens.

• Pool Fencing: Guidelines for the Fencing of Swimming Pools and Spa Pools  (PDF, 6 pages, 603Kb)
  This booklet provides you with some guidelines to ensure your swimming pool complies with regulations. You can also contact the Council for a hard copy.
• Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987
• General Bylaw 1991 (PDF, 84 pages, 249Kb)
  Part 9 - Supply of Water details the use of fencing in regards to swimming pools.

To make sure your fencing plans will comply, contact the Kapiti Coast District Council’s General Inspector before you begin fencing.

Exemptions

• Application Form for Special Exemption to the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act (PDF, 2 pages, 248kb)
  Section 6 of the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 allows for exemptions to its requirements in certain cases. Contact the Swimming Pool Safety Inspector at the Council to talk through your options.
• Application Form for Special Exemption for Portable Spa Pool (PDF, 2 pages, 53kb)
  The Council is now considering exemptions for owners of portable spa pools, provided the spa pool meets certain conditions.

In support of your application you may seek a Building Industry Authority decision. The Authority's contact details are 0800 242 243 39 or bia@bia.govt.nz