Pool Compliance Checklist
A quick run through this pool compliance checklist before your inspection often catches the easy items — so your barrier passes first time and your Form 23 is issued on the spot.
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Before you book — a quick self-check
Walk around your pool or spa barrier and check these six things. They are the items that most often need attention:
- GateSelf-closing and self-latching from any position, latch shielded or 1500mm high, never propped open.
- GapsNo gap in the barrier — under it, between verticals or at the gate — lets a 100mm sphere through.
- Non-climbable zoneA 900mm arc outside the barrier is clear of anything a child could use as a foothold.
- HeightThe barrier is at least 1200mm high, measured from the finished ground on the outside.
- CPR signA current, legible CPR / resuscitation sign is displayed near the pool or spa.
- ConditionThe whole barrier is in good repair — no loose panels, missing pickets or failing latches.
This is the owner's quick check — the full inspector's checklist with the detail is on our pool barrier & fence inspection page.
The four steps to a compliant pool
- 1
Register your pool or spa with council
Any pool or spa holding more than 300mm of water must be on your council's register.
- 2
Book a barrier inspection
A VBA-registered inspector checks the barrier against the standard that applies to it.
- 3
Fix anything that fails, then re-check
You get a clear list; once fixed, we re-check the work.
- 4
Receive and lodge your Form 23
On a pass we issue the Form 23, which is lodged with council — generally within 30 days.
See the full step-by-step and which council you lodge with on our compliance process & council guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is on a pool compliance checklist?
The key barrier checks are a self-closing and self-latching gate, no gaps over 100mm, a clear 900mm non-climbable zone, a barrier at least 1200mm high, a current CPR sign, and the whole barrier in good repair. The full inspector's detail is on our pool barrier & fence inspection page.
Can I check my own pool barrier before the inspection?
Yes — a quick self-check against the list above often catches the easy items (a sticky gate latch, a pot plant inside the non-climbable zone, a missing CPR sign) so your inspection passes first time. Only a registered inspector can issue the Form 23, though.
What fails a pool inspection most often?
The most common items are gates that do not self-latch, gaps that have opened up over time, climbable objects (pots, furniture, pool pumps) inside the non-climbable zone, and a missing or faded CPR sign.
Do I need a CPR sign?
Yes. A current, legible CPR / resuscitation sign must be displayed near the pool or spa — it is a standard part of the barrier compliance check.
Book your inspection & certificate
VBA-registered inspection and your Form 23 Certificate of Barrier Compliance, from $170 ex GST.