Adding a pool to an existing home: what the plans should show
When you add a pool, the drawings are where the fence gets settled. Here is what they should show.
Why drawings matter for an added pool
An existing home already has levels, paving, steps and boundaries. Drawings show how the pool and its barrier fit among them before anything is dug. They also give your certifier and builder something concrete to check.
What the drawings should show
- Site plan: the pool position, the house, the boundaries and the fence line.
- Finished levels: around the whole pool. The QBCC measures the minimum 1200mm fence height from finished ground level.
- Steps and changes of level: every step near the barrier. The QBCC says to measure stair-side panels from the tread nosing.
- Gate position: and the route from the house. Confirm gate requirements with your pool safety inspector.
- Fence style: frameless or semi-frameless. See the comparison.
Approvals
Ask your certifier, council or the QBCC what approvals and inspections apply to your pool, because they depend on the job and the state. A designer usually prepares the documents your certifier or council needs.
Checking the fence against the drawings
Once the pool is built, check the fence matches the drawings: the height from finished ground level, the gap under the barrier of 100mm or less, and nothing on the outside that gives a foothold. See the glass pool fence requirements.
Choosing a designer
Pick a designer who prepares renovation and extension drawings regularly. Francis Design, a practice that prepares renovation and extension drawings, also lists DA and CDC approvals among its services in NSW, where approval rules differ from Queensland, so confirm the rules for your own state.
Common questions
What drawings do I need to add a pool?
At minimum a site plan with the pool, the fence line and finished levels. Ask your certifier, council or the QBCC what else your job needs.
Do the drawings need to show the pool fence?
It helps. Showing the fence line, steps, finished levels and gate lets your certifier and builder check the barrier before work starts.
Who checks the fence once the pool is built?
A licensed pool safety inspector. If the pool complies they can issue a pool safety certificate.
General information only. This page summarises public QBCC guidance for Queensland. Confirm approvals for your own pool with your certifier, council or the QBCC.