Pool Fencing in Toowoomba

A barrier first, a fence second

A pool fence has one job before it looks good: keeping young children out. In Queensland it has to meet the pool safety standard, and the Toowoomba Regional Council requires a building approval for a fence that forms part of a pool barrier. The full checklist is in pool fence rules; the headline numbers are below.

The numbers that matter

• At least 1200mm high at every point, measured square to the ground
• No gap under the fence over 100mm
• At least one gap of 900mm between rails as a non-climbable zone, or extra measures where the rails are closer
• Nothing that gives a foothold close to the outside of the fence

Glass or aluminium

Glass gives a clear view of the water and suits paved surrounds. Panels are held by spigots or channels, and an exposed ledge on the outside must not be wider than 10mm. Aluminium is cheaper, light and strong, with vertical bars spaced to the standard. Either way, the gate and latch are where most failures happen.

Gates and latches

A pool gate must not open toward the pool, must close on its own and must latch from any open position. An outside latch release has to sit at least 1500mm above the ground. Propping a pool gate open is an offence. More in gates.

Using a boundary fence

A dividing fence can form part of the barrier if it meets the standard: at least 1200mm high and non-climbable on the outside, and the neighbour has to be given formal notice before the work starts.

Getting it priced

Call 0489 982 376 with the pool layout and what fencing exists now. Photos of the pool area help.