Do I need council permission to install a pool in Northland?
Yes, in almost every case, you will need council permission to install a swimming pool in Northland. This process is managed through a building consent from Northland Council and is primarily focused on safety.
The consent process is typically made up of two parts: the pool structure itself and the safety barrier (fence).
The Pool Structure: A building consent is required for any pool with a water surface area greater than 35m_.
The Fence: All pools capable of holding more than 400mm of water must have a compliant safety barrier, regardless of the pool's size. The barrier and its gates must be inspected and approved by the council.
To make the process simpler and more affordable for our clients, we have a range of 'Dream' and 'Urban' pools. We've specifically designed these pools to have a water surface area of less than 35m_, which means the pool structure itself is exempt from needing a building consent.
However, it's very important to note that even with these smaller pools, you will still need a building consent for the safety barrier that goes around it.
At NZ Swimming Pools, we walk you through the entire consent process for you. We have installers who can prepare and lodge all the necessary documentation with Northland Council to ensure your pool and its safety barrier are fully compliant with the building code. This way, you can be confident that your project is completed to the highest standard of safety and legality.