Pool and spa owners reminded to register

Homeowners and landlords in the City of Whittlesea are reminded that they must register their pools and spas with Council by 1 November this year.

The legal requirement was introduced by the Victorian Government in late 2019, however an extension was provided because of the pandemic.

City of Whittlesea Director Planning and Development, Justin O’Meara said letters have been sent to relevant properties and the registration process will enable Council to ensure pool barriers comply with safety requirements.

“Pools and spas can pose safety risks to young children, so it is important that barriers are installed and regularly inspected to ensure they are compliant with safety guidelines,” Mr O’Meara said. 

As well as requiring all pools and spas to be registered with Council, the new law requires all pool or spa safety barriers (fences) be inspected and issued with a certificate of compliance every four years. This requirement is being rolled out in stages depending on the year the pool or spa was constructed or installed and was recently extended by the Victorian Government. 

• Pools and spas constructed before 30 June 1994 must be inspected and issued with a certificate of compliance by 1 June 2022.

• Pools and spas constructed between 1 July 1994 and 1 May 2010 must be inspected and issued with a certificate of compliance by 1 June 2023.

• Pools and spas constructed after 1 May 2010 must be inspected and issued with a certificate of compliance 1 June 2024.

There is a $32.30 fee, which covers the cost of administration, to register your pool with Council, and a small additional information search fee of $47.90 if you need assistance finding the date of the pool or spa’s construction. Failure to register your pool or spa may result in an infringement.

For more information about the regulations and your responsibilities, visit our pools and spas webpage.