Swimming pool registration deadline extended

Published on 28 May 2020

Residents who have private pools and spas on their property now have until 1 November 2020 to register these facilities with Gannawarra Shire Council.

As part of efforts to reduce the number of fatal drownings in private swimming pools and spas, the Victorian Government introduced legislation in December 2019 that put in place new mandatory safety regulations for private pools and spas.

“The new regulations require residents to register their private pool and spas with their local council. This includes all permanent pools and spas, and most relocatable pools capable of holding water to a depth greater than 30 centimetres,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“Private pools and spas initially needed to be registered by 1 June 2020, but the State Government has extended this deadline as it will give homeowners more time to register their pools and spas, and reduce the workload on councils dealing with the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic."

Residents can register their private pools or spas by completing an application form, which is available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/register-your-pool or by phoning Council on (03) 5450 9333.

“Completed forms can be submitted to Council by mail to PO Box 287, Kerang 3579 or by email to council@gannawarra.vic.gov.au with a copy of the pool or spa’s Building Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection, if these documents are available,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Upon receipt of this information, Council will advise you of the relevant registration fee.”

Private pool and spa owners who do not register their facilities by 1 November 2020 may be liable to an on the spot fine of $330 and a breach of the Building Regulations 2018, which can be a penalty of up to $1652.20.

“I urge all swimming pool and spa owners to not leave it to the last minute to register,” Mr O’Reilly said.

For more information on the new regulations, visit www.vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/swimming-pools or contact Council’s Building Department on (03) 5450 9333.