Your obligations as a pool owner in NSW

Owning a pool or spa in NSW comes with three ongoing jobs: register it, keep the barrier compliant, and display a CPR sign. Selling or leasing adds a certificate.

1. Register your pool

All owners must register their pool or spa on the NSW Swimming Pool Register. Registration is tied to the property address, not the owner, and you don't need an account or personal details to do it. You can also ask your council to register it for a small fee.

Registration doesn't mean your pool complies. It just records that the pool exists.

2. Keep the barrier compliant

The barrier must comply at all times, not just on inspection day. See NSW pool barrier rules for the main requirements. If you change the barrier, the current standard (AS 1926.1-2012) applies.

3. Display a CPR sign

A CPR sign must be displayed near the pool, in good condition and readable from 3 m away.

Selling or leasing

• Selling: the contract must include the registration certificate plus a valid certificate of compliance, an occupation certificate issued in the last 3 years, or a certificate of non-compliance. See selling a house with a pool.
• Leasing: tenants must be given a copy of a certificate of compliance or an occupation certificate. A certificate of non-compliance can't be used to lease. See landlords and pool safety.

A certificate of compliance is issued by a council or a registered pool inspector, and is valid for 3 years.

Council inspections

Councils must run a pool barrier inspection program and can direct owners to make a barrier comply. Pools at movable dwellings and tourist or visitor accommodation must be inspected every 3 years.

Need a certificate? Book an inspection or call Garry on 0417 277 164.