Skip to main content
Reduced services
More Many of our services are closed over Christmas but our contact centre will prioritise urgent safety calls. Check our website or read Our Auckland for information on services that are closed or reduced over summer - Learn moreReduced services

Ētahi atu whakatūranga hei ārai puna wai kaukau

Other structures used as part of the pool barrier

Using a building as a part of pool barrier

If you plan to use a building to form part of the pool barrier, all windows and doors leading out into the pool area, must comply with the NZ Building Code.

The section of the building code governing this area is F9.

You can demonstrate compliance with this requirement in several of ways, either:

​Using boundary fencing as part of pool barrier

If your proposed pool barrier is located on a property boundary, it needs to meet the requirements of the building code.

The section of the building code governing this area is F9.

You can demonstrate compliance with this requirement in several of ways, either:

Other clauses that may apply to your proposal are B1 StructureB2 Durability, F2 Hazardous building materials, and F4 Safety from falling.

If your proposed pool is less than 1m from the boundary fence, you may have to propose an Alternative solution to comply.

Our tip

We check the compliance of your existing pool barrier every three years. There is a fixed inspection fee for this service, or you may engage the services of an IQPI (Independent Qualified Pool Inspector).

If your pool and barrier were in place prior to 2017, clauses 8-10 of the Schedule to the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 may still apply. See section 450A of the Building Act 2004.

Homeowners, tenants, landlords and property managers carry joint responsibility for pool safety. Make sure the pool is always secure and ensure safety through regular maintenance of fences and gates.

More information

For more information on how your pool barrier can meet compliance, see the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment website

Related topics