Many pool owners assume any fence will do, but NSW pool barriers have specific requirements. Knowing them before you build saves money and avoids failed inspections.
The barrier must be at least 1.2 metres high, measured from finished ground level. A 900mm non-climbable zone must be kept clear on the outside, so there should be no planter boxes, furniture or retaining ledges a child could use as a step. Gaps at the bottom can't exceed 100mm, and any openings in the barrier must be small enough to stop a child squeezing through.
Gates are where many barriers fail. Under AS 1926.1 they must be self-closing, self-latching and swing away from the pool. Latches should sit at a height small children can't reach, and the gate should close reliably from any open position.
One detail catches people out. If a boundary fence forms part of the pool barrier, it needs to be 1.8m high to meet the standard. That's worth checking before assuming an existing fence is compliant.
Compliance rules can vary with property layout, so it pays to have a local professional measure up on site. You can learn more about how a measure, install and sign-off process typically runs, including the safety certificate issued for pool jobs.