Residents reminded to register their pools

Coinciding with the arrival of warmer weather, Auckland Council and WaterSafe Auckland are reminding pool owners of their responsibilities, including to register their pool with the council.

“A swimming pool or spa pool is a wonderful asset but they can pose risks, particularly to young children,” says Auckland Council Building Control Manager Ian McCormick. “To help reduce these risks pool owners have a number of legal obligations – including a requirement to register any pool they own, even portable spas, with the council.”

“Doing so ensures their pool will receive a mandatory tri-annual inspection from council aimed at ensuring pool areas are safe and, if necessary, owners get advice on how to comply with pool fencing regulations and other requirements.”

Mr McCormick says people can register their pool or check if it registered already by calling Auckland Council on (09) 301 0101. Information on pool fencing and building consent requirements is available on the council’s website www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

“Remember before you install a pool you must get a building consent and all existing and new pools must be fenced,” he says. “We also encourage owners to complete annual maintenance of pool fencing and gates to ensure they are compliant between tri-annual inspections.”