Pool Fences for a Safe Summer Splash: Everything You Need to Know

As the summer heat rises, so does the number of pool-goers seeking refreshing dips to cool off. While enjoying the water can be fun, safety must remain a priority. Pool fences play a crucial role in keeping swimming areas secure, especially for families with children or pets. If you're considering adding or upgrading a pool fence, here’s a comprehensive guide from Latitude Fencing to help you find the perfect balance between safety, aesthetics, and functionality.

What Are the Pool Fencing Rules in Melbourne?

If you have a backyard pool in Melbourne or plan to build one, you need to know this: pool fences are not optional—they are required by law. Pool fencing is a critical safety measure to prevent accidental drownings, especially among young children. In Victoria, your pool fence must comply with state regulations to pass mandatory inspections and protect your loved ones.

Why Pool Fencing Matters: Safety First

Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, particularly around pools. Pool fences are the first line of defense against accidents. They prevent unsupervised access to the water, reducing the risk of drowning - especially for young children, who are most vulnerable. According to studies, proper fencing can prevent over 50% of accidental drownings involving children.

Backyard pools offer relaxation and fun during Melbourne’s hot summers, but without proper barriers, they pose a real danger. According to Royal Life Saving Australia, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death in children under five, and most incidents occur in private home pools.

The Role of Pool Fencing:

• Prevents unsupervised access to the pool

• Reduces risk of accidental drowning

• Complies with Victorian safety standards

• Gives homeowners peace of mind

In short, a compliant and well-maintained pool fence saves lives—and also saves you from costly penalties.

Melbourne Pool Fence Regulations (2025)

Who Sets the Rules?

In Victoria, pool safety standards are enforced by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) under the Building Act 1993 and the Building Regulations 2018. All swimming pools and spas capable of holding more than 300mm of water must be surrounded by a compliant safety barrier.

Key Requirements Include:

• Fence must be at least 1.2 metres high

• No gaps larger than 100mm anywhere in the barrier

• Gates must be self-closing and self-latching

• No climbable objects within 900mm of the fence

• Fence must fully enclose the pool area and separate it from the house or other buildings

  
  

Mandatory Pool Fence Inspections in Melbourne

Since 1 December 2019, pool and spa owners in Victoria must register their pool or spa with their local council and have it inspected every four years. The purpose? To ensure your barrier still meets the applicable safety standards over time.

Registration Deadline: Within 30 days of pool or spa installationInspection

Schedule: Every 4 years

Fines for Non-Compliance: Up to $1,849.20 (as of 2025)

Types of Pool Fences for a Safe Summer SplashPool Fences

1. Metal Fences: Sturdy and Low Maintenance

Metal fences, especially black aluminium or wrought iron, are popular choices for their durability and classic style. They are easy to maintain and last for years without requiring much upkeep. The design is also versatile, fitting well with a variety of home styles—from modern to traditional. Black metal fences are a favorite because they blend into landscapes while providing the strength needed to keep your pool area safe​.

However, keep in mind that metal fences need to meet specific safety requirements. The gaps between bars should be small enough to prevent children or pets from squeezing through.

Pros:

• Lightweight and rust-resistant

• Easy to install

• Customisable in color and design

Cons:

• Not as transparent as glass

• May dent or bend under heavy impact

Average Cost in Melbourne:$90–$200 per linear metre (installed)

Best For: Families seeking affordability without sacrificing safety

2. Glass Fences: Sleek and Unobtrusive

For homeowners who don’t want to obstruct their view of the pool, glass fences are an excellent option. These fences create a modern, elegant look while providing a clear line of sight across your yard. Glass panels give the illusion of open space, making your pool area feel larger. This type of fence is perfect if you have beautiful landscaping or a scenic view that you don’t want to block.

It’s important, however, to ensure that the glass used is both weatherproof and shatterproof. This not only keeps the area safe but also complies with local regulations​. Glass fences tend to be on the higher end in terms of cost, but the aesthetic and functional benefits often outweigh the price.

Pros:

• High-end appearance

• Doesn’t block light or garden views

• Corrosion-resistant (great for saltwater pools)

Cons:

• More expensive than other types

• Needs frequent cleaning (fingerprints, watermarks)

Average Cost in Melbourne:$300–$600 per linear metre (installed)

Best For: Luxury homes, small pools where space feels tight

3. Mesh Pool Fences: Lightweight and Removable

Mesh fences are an affordable and convenient solution for those who want flexibility. These fences are removable, making them perfect for families who only need a fence during certain times of the year. Lightweight yet sturdy, they can easily be taken down when not in use. Mesh fences also come with the added benefit of being nearly transparent, so they don’t compromise your view of the pool.

However, since mesh fences are temporary, they may not be as visually appealing as permanent structures. But when it comes to safety, they do the job well and are relatively easy to install​.

4. Timber Pool Fencing (with Safety Inserts)

For those looking for a more traditional or rustic look, wooden fences are a great choice. A wooden fence can blend beautifully with natural landscapes and can be customized with various paint colors or stains. However, wood requires more maintenance than metal or glass—regular sealing and staining are necessary to protect it from weather damage and maintain its appearance​.

Pros:

• Natural, warm look

• Great privacy

• Complements timber decking or landscaping

Cons:

• Needs regular sealing or painting

• Must be designed carefully to meet regulations

Average Cost:$100–$180 per linear metre

Best For: Natural, bushland gardens in suburbs like Warrandyte or Eltham

5. Hedge Fences: Aesthetic and Natural

For a natural barrier, hedge fences add both beauty and privacy to your pool area. Tall hedges can form a lush green wall that enhances the overall look of your yard while serving as a pool fence. However, these are not a standalone solution for pool safety, as they don’t meet legal safety standards. A hedge can be paired with other fence types for a more effective setup​.

Pool Fence Design and Style Considerations

When selecting a pool fence, you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for safety. There are various design options to suit your taste while still keeping the pool area secure.

1. Let Your Landscape Inspire Your Fence

Your pool fence should complement your home’s style. For example, if your house has a Colonial design, you might choose a wooden split-rail fence with mesh to meet safety codes​. The idea is to integrate the fence into your yard’s overall look, so it doesn’t appear out of place. Planning the fence around the pool’s surroundings ensures a cohesive and appealing result.

2. Incorporate Plantings Around the Fence

To soften the look of a functional pool fence, consider adding landscaping features like vines or evergreen plants. Climbing plants can grow along the base of the fence, eventually covering parts of the railings, creating a natural, organic look​. You can also plant larger bushes or shrubs, which provide additional privacy.

3. Combine Different Materials for a Unique Look

If you want to create a modern, custom look, try combining materials such as stone and wood. For instance, using a stone wall as part of the fence gives a sense of permanence, while wooden slats add warmth to the design​. This approach allows for creativity and personalization in your pool fence design.

Read more: Above Ground Pool Security Fence: Everything You Need to Know

Legal and Safety Regulations

Safety isn’t just about choosing a strong fence; it’s also about meeting legal requirements. Pool fences must adhere to strict safety standards, including height, gate mechanisms, and spacing between fence elements. In most places, pool fences need to be at least 4 feet tall, and gates must be self-closing and self-latching​.

Before installation, consult your local building codes and safety regulations to ensure your pool fence complies with legal requirements. Failing to meet these standards can lead to penalties and fines, not to mention the increased risk of accidents.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

While some pool fences can be installed by DIY enthusiasts, others, particularly glass or stone fences, require professional installation. A DIY installation can save money, but a professional ensures that your fence is installed correctly and up to code.

A professional contractor will also have a better understanding of local safety regulations, ensuring that your pool fence meets all the necessary standards. This is especially crucial for more complex fences like those made of glass, which need to be carefully measured and installed​.

Enhancing Pool Safety with Additional Features

To further boost pool safety, consider adding extra features to your fence setup. Self-closing gates are one such feature. These gates ensure that the pool area is automatically secured even if someone forgets to close it behind them​. Alarms or sensors can also be installed on the gates to notify you when someone enters the pool area unexpectedly.

Conclusion

A pool fence is more than just a barrier - it’s a lifesaving tool. As you prepare for a fun-filled summer, don’t forget to prioritize safety. Whether you choose a metal, glass, or mesh fence, ensuring that your pool area is secure should be your top priority. With various materials and designs available, it’s easy to find a pool fence that fits your style while keeping your loved ones safe. Now is the perfect time to upgrade your pool with a stylish and secure fence for a splash-safe summer.