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WA Pool Compliance & Safety: The Ultimate Guide for Stock Tank Pool Owners
4 Sept 2024
Informational
Eduardo A. Morales
Pool Compliance in WA: What Every Backyard Owner Needs to Know
Owning a pool in Western Australia is all about fun and relaxation—but it also means playing by some of the toughest safety rules in Australia. If you’re installing a stock tank pool (or any backyard pool deeper than 30cm), these are the compliance steps you absolutely can’t skip.
Do I need council approval for a stock tank pool in WA?
Yes! Any pool that can hold more than 300mm (30cm) of water—including above-ground, portable, or stock tank pools—requires a building permit before installation. No exceptions.
What’s the magic number for fencing and approval?
That same 300mm (30cm) depth triggers all approval, fencing, and inspection rules. If your pool can hold more than that, the full compliance process applies.
Is there a difference between DIY and professional install for approval?
Legally—no difference! The rules are the same, but:
If you install it yourself, you become the “builder” on all permits and are responsible for every step of compliance.
You must submit all documentation, arrange the first council inspection, and provide a BA7 Notice of Completion.
If you hire a pro, the builder handles the paperwork and compliance—easier, but you still need to check they do it right.
Pool Fencing: What’s Required in WA?
Minimum height: 1.2m (120cm) non-pool side
Gates must swing outward, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch at least 1.5m high
No gaps bigger than 100mm
900mm non-climbable zones around the fence
Special rules for boundary and mesh fencing, and no sharp edges/projections
The ground beneath must be stable and level
Removable ladders or steps? Still need a fence around the access point!
Are above-ground/stock tank pools treated differently?
Nope. The rules are identical—if it’s deeper than 300mm, you need fencing and approval. Pool walls above 1.2m can form part of the barrier, but ladders and access areas must be fenced.
Safety isn’t just the law—it’s peace of mind. Do it right, keep it fun, and your WA backyard can be both safe and sensational for years to come.
The Registration, Inspection, and Compliance Process
How do I register my pool?
Apply for a building permit before installation (include site plans and compliance details)
Build/install the pool and safety barrier
Submit a BA7 Notice of Completion within 7 days
Arrange council inspection as soon as the pool holds water
Once passed, your pool is registered!
How long does it take and what does it cost?
Permit assessment: 10–25 business days (varies by council)
Initial inspection: Within 30 days of completion (as of June 2024)
Fees: Several hundred dollars for permits, ~$150–$300 for inspections, plus annual pool levy in your rates
Who inspects, and how often?
First inspection: Local council or their contractor (often Royal Life Saving Society WA)
Every 4 years: All pools re-inspected for barrier compliance (charged through your rates)
Fail an inspection? You get 60 days to fix issues, then a re-inspection
What if I don’t comply?
$1,000 infringement for non-compliant barriers
Up to $5,000 for prosecution of barrier offences
Up to $50,000 for ignoring compliance/building orders
Insurance can be voided for any incident involving a non-compliant pool
You can’t sell a property with a non-compliant pool—must fix it first
DIY vs. Turnkey: Compliance Risks and Paperwork
DIY is allowed, but you must follow every step: permits, BA7, council inspection, and keep documentation
Professional installers (like Terra Tanks) can handle the lot—giving you certificates and peace of mind
WA’s Unique Rules & Recent Changes (2023–24):
Initial council inspections must occur within 30 days of completion
Pool fencing permits streamlined: most fences don’t require a separate building permit
More robust enforcement and zero-tolerance for non-compliance
Resources & Who Can Help
Your local council’s Building Services (for permits/inspections)
Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (technical advice)
Royal Life Saving Society WA (inspections/education)
Terra Tanks—call or email us for guidance, documentation, and full compliance support
Key Contacts:
City of Perth: (08) 9461 3333
City of Fremantle: Building Services
City of Joondalup: Building Department
Terra Tanks WA: 0421 824 725
WA Pool Compliance Checklist:
Building permit approved before installation
Fence at least 1.2m high, self-closing gate, no big gaps, no climbable objects
BA7 Notice of Completion submitted
Initial inspection booked within 30 days
Pool registered with council
Ongoing re-inspections every 4 years
