Swimming Pool Exemption
Swimming Pool Exemption

Swimming Pool Exemption

Swimming Pool Exemption

Apply for an exemption from safety barrier requirements.
Last updated on: 01 February 2026
In this article
In this article

Swimming Pool Exemption

Apply for an exemption under Section 22 of the Swimming Pools Act 1992 if you believe that complying with the current swimming pool safety barrier standards is impracticable or unreasonable, or if you have a safe alternative that works just as effective.
However:
  • If your pool can meet current safety standards, you probably won't get an exemption.
  • If your pool is approved under the National Construction Code (via a Construction Certificate or Complying Development Certificate), you likely don't need an exemption.
  • If your pool doesn't meet the Code, an exemption is unlikely to be approved.
If you are unsure, contact us to discuss your situation on 4974 2000 or consult a registered Certifier.

Application information

What you need to provide

This section will help you prepare a complete application; however additional information may be requested after our initial review.

Application fees

There are no fees payable when you submit your application. We'll invoice you after your application and preferences have been reviewed. If you'd like a fee estimate before applying, search for the application name in our Fees and Charges document.

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Submit application

Create or sign into your account

  • As part of the application process, you'll be prompted to register or sign in to your account.
  • Your account makes it easy to submit applications and requests, track their progress, view outcomes, and make payments all in one place.
  • You can find more information and step-by-step guidance on creating a registered user account, as well as access to support services, on our Registration Enquiry article.

Next steps

  1. Shortly after submitting your application, you will receive an email confirming we've received it, along with an invoice for the application fees.
  2. If it appears eligible, we'll schedule a site inspection with the owner to confirm whether meeting safety standards is genuinely impractical.
  3. If approved, you will receive a certificate confirming the exemption.

Time frames

  • We will contact the nominated person responsible for providing property access within 10 business days to arrange an inspection.
  • Once the inspection is complete, please allow up to 5 business days for your exemption certificate to be issued.