Councils can advise pool owners on whether their pool fence is compliant, following these steps:

• An owner may make a written application to their local council.
• Once the council has received the request, it has 10 business days to respond in writing, stating whether or not the pool fencing complies.
• If the fencing does not comply, the council must advise the pool owner what needs to be done to bring the pool fencing into compliance.

On-the-spot fines and penalties

The Building Amendment Act 2003 ( 470 KB) and the amendment to the State Penalties Enforcement Regulation 2000 ( 784 KB) enable councils to issue on-the-spot fines and take further action through the courts to impose penalties.

Councils who propose to issue infringement notices and on-the-spot fines must also register their details with the State Penalties Enforcement Registry. Contact the Department of Justice and Attorney-General further information.

For specific, technical information on the requirements of the new pool fencing laws contact Building Codes Queensland.