Spa pool regulations in Queensland (Rules, recommendations, and more)

When you’re installing a spa pool or swim spa, finding the right information and working out what rules apply to your space can feel a little overwhelming! We understand. That’s why we’ve explained everything you need to know in a clear and simple way.

After reading this article you should have a good understanding of the rules and requirements for installing a spa or swim spa in Queensland.

If after reading this article, you feel like you need help, we can do the certification for you or refer you to a local certifier.

Click the button below to contact our certification specialist.

What information does this article cover?

The first section of this article applies to Queensland and covers spa building permits, registrations, installation, safety barriers and general questions for this region only. The second section covers rules that apply Australia-wide including:

• where to place your spa or swim spa
• spa installation
• electrical requirements
• using your spa
• Spa World™ learning centre

Please note the majority of spa-related questions also apply to swim spas.

Important: This document provides a simplified overview of current regulations in reference to Spa World™ products. It is not a complete guide. We advise all customers to seek independent advice in relation to their own personal site requirements. The information in this article was accurate at the time of writing. This can change without notice and you must check the latest information with your local council.

Spa pool and swim spa regulations in Queensland - your questions answered

Do I need a permit for my spa in Queensland?

Yes, you will need a building permit before installing your new portable spa pool. That’s because the spa pool also requires a safety barrier which needs a building permit before it can be installed.

What happens if I choose not to get a permit?

It is against the law to not get a permit but that is only the start.

If you choose to not get a permit, then you most likely will run into trouble when you go to sell your property and this will incur far greater cost than doing it prior to installation.

WARNING: If there was an accident that involved your spa or swim spa, and you did not get a permit, it is likely that your insurance would not cover you and you could be open to civil and criminal action.

Please get a permit. It is worth it.

Is my spa pool also considered as a swimming pool in legislation in Queensland?

Yes, the Australian Standard defines a swimming pool as: Any structure containing water to a depth greater than 300mm and used primarily for swimming, wading, paddling or the like, including a bathing or wading pool, or spa pool.

Does my spa pool or swim spa need to be registered with the council in Queensland?

Yes, all residential pools in Queensland must be registered with the QBCC (the Queensland Building and Construction Commission). You could be issued with a fine if you don’t register your spa pool or swim spa.

I want to build a small deck for my new spa in Queensland. Do I need a building permit?

A building permit is required for decks that have a floor area greater than 10 square metres or higher than 1 metre above the existing ground level.

What are the specifications for a spa or swim spa slab in Queensland?

Spa World™ can provide generic concrete slab designs for both swim spas and portable spas that are suitable for most soil types. For more information, please head to the learning centre on our website.

Does my spa need to be fenced with an approved pool safety barrier in Queensland?

Yes, all new spas in Queensland are required to have a pool safety barrier and all barriers also require a building permit. A lockable hardcover is not considered to be a suitable barrier in Queensland.

Do I need a registered builder to carry out building work for my pool safety barrier in Queensland?

You should contact a builder that’s registered in an appropriate category or class to do the work.

You can choose to be an owner-builder; however, you will need to apply for a certificate of consent from the QBCC for work valued at more than $3,300.

Does Spa World have the required plumbing certificate for products that require it in Queensland?

Yes, all Spa World™ products have the relevant plumbing approvals as required by legislation.

Can my boundary fence form part of the pool safety barrier in Queensland?

Yes. A boundary fence can act as part of a barrier to a pool if the height of the fence is at least 1800mm on the inside. A boundary fence also needs to have a non-climbable zone with a 900mm radius from the top of the inside of the barrier.

A boundary fence may be less than 1800 millimetres in height, but not less than 1200 millimetres in height, provided the non-climbable zone is located on the outside of the fence (i.e. the side facing away from the pool area).

Does my new spa need a CPR sign in Queensland?

If you have a pool, you must display a CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) sign attached to the pool’s safety barrier or displayed near the pool in a prominent position, so it can be seen easily.

Do spas from Spa World™ have electrical approvals?

Yes - All Spa World products have the relevant electrical approvals where required by legislation.

If you require a copy of these certificates, please email compliance@spaworld.com.au

Spa building regulations in Australia - your questions answered

How close can my spa be to my boundary?

The standard setback from the boundary is 1500mm. However, this can sometimes be relaxed if certain requirements for the boundary fence are met. As a general rule, the minimum distance achievable is 1000mm.

Can I put a spa or swim spa into a deck?

Yes, you can install a spa into a deck. It’s important to keep in mind that there are many things to consider in order to have trouble-free use of your spa for years to come. For more information, head to the Spa World™ learning centre.

Can you manually carry or lift a spa into position?

Spa pools are heavy and we do not recommend that you lift one manually. It is best to read our pre-delivery guide for professional advice and handy tips before making plans to move your spa.

Do I need a crane to install a swim spa?

Yes, you will need a crane to install a swim spa. There are several options to consider, depending on accessibility to your spa space. A Hiab truck may be able to do the job, otherwise it will be necessary to hire a crane.

How do I get a spa or swim spa in my backyard?

The answer to this question will depend on access to your property and the desired location of the spa pool or swim spa. There are a number of points to consider before your spa delivery and when you purchase a spa from Spa World™ you will need to send through property access details.

Watch this short video find out what information is needed before your spa is delivered. You can also visit our learning centre for more details.

Can I install my spa in-ground?

Yes, you can install your spa in-ground or into a pit. However Spa World™ does not provide in-ground shells. For more information, we recommend you check out the Spa World™ pre-delivery guide.

Does my spa need a concrete foundation?

We recommend that you use engineered concrete slabs for your spa foundation and can even provide you with a generic engineered design.

However if you would like to place your spa on a different foundation, it should be certified by an engineer. To learn more, read A solid foundation for your spa - what you need to know.

Do I need approvals for my spa pool?

Depending on your situation, you may need approval from your local council to install a spa pool or swim spa in your desired location. We recommend you make contact to find out what requirements apply to you.

Does my spa need to be fenced?

Fencing requirement guidelines depend on many factors including product and location and this can vary between states. We advise customers to contact the local council or certifier before installing a spa.

Does Spa World™ offer an installation or compliance service?

The Spa World™ team does not install spa pools or swim spas or issue certifications for your installation. Spa World™ can refer you to a certifier (Surveyor) that can help you with regulations for your installation.

Spa World™ does offer delivery services, for a fee, to customers who live within a particular radius of a Spa World™ Showroom location. To find out if your spa can be delivered to your property, please contact your local Spa World™ showroom.

Where can I find information on spa installation or delivery?

The Spa World™ pre-delivery guide will provide you with all the information you need before installing your spa. When you make your spa or swim spa purchase, you will be assigned a Spa World™ concierge who will look after you and make regular contact from the moment you make your purchase through until after delivery.

Who can carry out electrical work for my spa, swim spa or plunge pool installation?

All electrical work must be completed by a qualified electrician.

What are the power requirements for my spa?

To find out what power supply you need, refer to the tech sheet for your Spa World™ spa which can be located and downloaded from the product page on our website.

Do spas and swim spas need electrical and plumbing approvals?

All spas need to have both certifications in order to be sold legally in Australia and New Zealand. It’s important that a spa meets all approvals for the safety of you, your family and friends. Email compliance@spaworld.com.au for more information.

Can I run my spa on an extension lead?

No, a licensed electrician must install a dedicated power supply that meets local and national regulations.

Do I need to contact a plumber when installing my spa pool?

No, you do not need to contact a plumber. However, if you’re installing your spa pool or swim spa into a pit, you will need a plumber to ensure an adequate drainage system is in place in order to prevent the pit from flooding.

The concrete slab for my spa is not level - What can I do?

Floor levelling products are available to help you create a level surface. If you have a fall of more than 20mm over the length of the spa, you may be able to use wedges chocks to make the surface level. We suggest you email compliance@spaworld.com.au

Wondering what the most common spa foundations are and what measure you need to take before installing your spa? Read this article to learn more.

What is the maximum distance a heat pump can be installed from the spa circulation pump?

We recommend the distance between the spa heat pump and spa circulation pump should be no greater than 3 metres. The height distance between the two pumps should not be any greater than 1 metre. To learn more, read this article: Installing an external heat pump for your spa.

Do I need a hard cover for my spa?

Yes, when your spa or swim spa is not in use, it needs to be covered. The covers available at Spa World™ are lockable and provide a high level of insulation. Effective insulation will help reduce the running costs of a spa. Please note that leaving an empty spa uncovered and exposed to the sun will damage the acrylic shell and is not covered under warranty.

What local and environmental restrictions apply to spa pools in Queensland?

Additional approvals may be needed or requirements met for corner lots rural areas, and flood overlay zones, as well as compliance with easements.

What are the window and door regulations for spa pool areas in Queensland?

Windows and doors cannot open directly into the spa area. Windows must open less than 100mm, or they need a security screen if near the spa barrier.

How must gates and access points be configured for spa pools in Queensland?

Gates around the spa area must always swing outwards and self-close and latch from any distance.

Are there clearance requirements for spa pool accessories in Queensland?

When planning your area additional clearance requirements should be factored for accessories such as cover lifters, steps, or heat pumps.

What are the easement and build over service (BOS) application requirements for spa pools?

Clearances for easements and services like sewer lines are mandatory. A BOS application may be needed, often with additional costs.

Can Queensland certifiers request a Form 15 for spa pools?

Queensland certifiers may request a Form 15, which is a compliance document specific to structural or design standards. If a site-specific form is needed, this may incur extra charges.

Is it permissible to remove steps from a spa pool to meet compliance in Queensland?

Removing steps from a swim spa for compliance is prohibited, and permits will not be approved without them.

In Summary

We hope this article has helped answer your questions about the rules, regulations and what you can and can’t do with your new spa or swim spa.

If you need help or have further questions, please get in touch with our Certification Team. We can help with advice and put you touch with recommended certifiers in your area. Click the button below to contact us.