Does My Fence Meet Current NSW Regulations?

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Your glass pool fence may look safe and secure, but does it meet current pool safety regulations? At PoolSafe, we understand how important it is to ensure your pool fencing complies with Australian Standards and relevant state requirements.
Whether you’ve recently purchased a property with a swimming pool, are renovating your outdoor area, or simply want peace of mind, regularly checking your glass pool fence is essential. Glass fencing can become non-compliant over time due to changes in ground levels, loose hardware, damaged panels, landscaping or alterations to gates and surrounding structures.
Our checklist below will help you identify common issues to look for. However, a visual inspection alone cannot confirm compliance. If you’re unsure about your pool fence, arrange an assessment with a suitably qualified pool safety inspector or certifier.

Glass Pool Fence Compliance Checklist

Use this checklist as a starting point to identify potential safety and compliance issues around your pool.

1. Fence height and gaps

The glass pool fence is at least 1,200 mm high, measured from the relevant finished ground level.
The gap between the bottom of the fence and the ground is no greater than 100 mm.
Gaps between panels and around posts or other barrier components meet the applicable requirements.

2. Glass panels and fixings

All glass panels are free from cracks, chips or other damage that could compromise safety.
Spigots, brackets, clamps and other fixings are secure and in good condition.
There is no noticeable movement, looseness or instability in the panels.
The installed glass and hardware are appropriate for the fencing system and installation.

3. Pool gate operation

The gate swings away from the pool area, where required.
The gate closes automatically from the required open positions without assistance.
The gate self-latches securely every time it closes.
The latch and hinges are secure, unobstructed and functioning correctly.
The gate is never propped open and remains closed when not in use.

4. Climbable objects and surrounding areas

There are no climbable objects within the applicable non-climbable zone.
Outdoor furniture, pot plants, toys, ladders and equipment are positioned away from the barrier.
Trees, retaining walls, garden beds and other structures do not create potential climbing points.
Changes to paving, landscaping or ground levels have not compromised the barrier height or gaps.

5. Overall pool safety

The barrier separates the pool from the house and adjoining areas as required.
Doors and windows that could provide access to the pool comply with the requirements applicable to the property.
The required CPR sign is displayed, legible and appropriately positioned.
The pool barrier is maintained in good working order, with no damaged or missing components.

6. Documentation and inspection

You have retained any available installation, engineering and glazing documentation.
You know when the pool and its barrier were installed or last modified.
You have checked whether a current compliance certificate or other relevant approval is available.
You have arranged a professional inspection if compliance is uncertain or defects have been identified.

Important Australian pool fencing regulations

For PoolSafe customers in New South Wales, the applicable requirements depend on factors such as when the pool was built, the relevant standard, the property type and whether the barrier has been altered. The NSW Government identifies several versions of AS 1926 that may apply to existing pools. Modifications can affect which requirements apply.

Some commonly referenced NSW requirements include:

Minimum fence height: Generally 1,200 mm.
Ground clearance: Generally no more than 100 mm beneath the barrier.
Non-climbable zones: Keep potential footholds and handholds clear of the required zones.
Gate safety: Gates must meet the applicable self-closing and self-latching requirements.
Ongoing maintenance: Pool barriers must remain in good working order.

These are general reference points, not a complete list of requirements for every property.

For the official guidance, visit the NSW Government pool safety obligations and the NSW Swimming Pool Register checklists

What if your glass pool fence doesn’t meet regulations?

If you identify any potential issues, don’t ignore them. A damaged panel, faulty gate latch, loose fixing or change in ground level could affect the safety of your pool area.

Address immediate safety risks. Prevent unsupervised access to the pool, particularly by children, while arranging appropriate repairs.
Arrange a professional assessment. A registered pool inspector or suitably qualified certifier can assess compliance with the requirements applicable to your property.
Organise necessary repairs or alterations. Use a suitably qualified glass pool fencing professional for work on panels, fixings, gates and other barrier components.
Confirm compliance. Arrange any required follow-up inspection and retain relevant documentation.

How PoolSafe can help?

At PoolSafe, we specialise in premium glass pool fencing solutions designed to combine safety, quality workmanship and architectural appeal. If your existing glass pool fence needs attention, or you’re planning an upgrade, our team can help with your glass fencing needs across the Northern Rivers.

Not sure whether your glass pool fence meets current regulations? Contact PoolSafe to discuss your fencing concerns and the next steps towards a safer, professionally finished pool area.