Pool fencing

Back to pool fencing rules

Doors and windows next to the pool area

Doors and windows leading into the immediate pool area must comply with the Building Code: Section F4.3.5.

Windows from dwelling
Doors from dwelling

Windows from dwelling

	Bi-fold windows should have limiters fitted to prevent opening more than 100mm
	Limiters to be fitted to prevent opening more than 100mm
	Sliding window Limiters to be fitted to prevent opening more than 100mm
	Any windows with the inside sill below 1.2m should be fitted with a limiter to prevent the window being opened more than 100mm

Doors from dwelling

If doors from a dwelling lead into the pool area and as such form part of the pool fence the requirements are as follows:

New pools

A decision by the High Court allows doors to be used only if leading into the 'immediate pool area'. They should be in line of sight of the pool and self close and latch, with the latch at 1.5m from the floor level. Multiple doors out of sight of the pool will not be allowed.

This change means that, in the future, bi-fold / sliding doors can only be used if leading directly into the pool area and if they self close and latch. Auckland City recommends automatic closers for sliding doors. Fences for all new pools would need to comply with the regulations as set out in the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act (1987).

	Hinged doors should open away from the pool and have self latching (spring loaded) door handle or latch fitted at 1.5m from floor level. The opening leaf of the door should self close and have no hold open devices present.
	Sliding doors should self close and latch, with the latch at 1.5m from floor level. Bi-fold doors are not recommended for use as they are difficult to self close.

Existing pools

Bi-fold doors forming part of a pool fence that has previously been inspected and approved by Auckland City will continue to comply until the new standards are introduced.

	Bi-fold doors or sliding doors to have latch fitted above 1.5m from floor level
	Sliding doors also to have latch fitted above 1.5m from floor level
	Hinge doors to have self latching (spring loaded) door handle or latch fitted at 1.5m from floor level. The opening leaf of the door should self close and have no hold open devices present