Shire of Murray

Swimming Pools and Spas

A Building Licence is required prior to installing a swimming pool or spa, whether new or secondhand, below or above ground.When considering “pools”, the term refers to both swimming pools and spas.   Spa baths not connected to a filtration/chlorination system and emptied after each use are not required to have a building licence or fence.

Prior to identifying a possible area for the pool on your property, consideration should first be given to the method and location of the barrier (fences and gates) that enclose the pool.  Pools installed since November 2001 are required to be provided with full isolation fencing. Reference is made to our Pool Barrier Information Sheet, it is also advisable to speak to a Building department officer.

Ideally, a pool should be positioned the same distance from buildings and boundaries as it is deep at that point.  For example, if a pool is 1.8m deep at the deep end then the deep end should be located at least 1.8m away from any building or boundary. Pools must be located at least 1.2m away from septic tanks and at least 1.8m away from leach drains or soak wells.

A Building Licence application for a swimming pool must be accompanied by:

1. A completed building licence application form, signed by the builder.

2. Two copies of a site plan, at a scale of not less than 1:200, indicating the location of the proposed pool, any existing buildings on site and the location of the septic system and leach drains if applicable.  The location of the isolation fencing must also be indicated on the site plan confirming the position and swing of access gates.

3. Two copies of a section detail drawing confirming the method of construction at a scale of 1:100.  This detail will be required to be endorsed in ink by a professional Engineer.  If the proposed pool is second hand, a report from a professional Engineer must be provided to confirm that the pool is structurally sound and suitable for re-use.

4. Payment of application fees – building fees are calculated on construction cost with a minimum $85.00 Council fee and a Builders’ Registration Board Levy of $40.50.

Fees quote must be verified with the Shire's latest Schedule of Fees and Charges. 

For further information on Swimming Pools, contact Council’s Building Services on 9531 7777.