Do You Need a Fence for Your Stock Tank Pool in Australia? Understanding Rules and Priorities

You’re picturing a stock tank plunge pool in your yard—relaxing, affordable, stylish, and easy to install. But what’s actually required to keep that pool legal and safe in an Aussie backyard?

Stock tank pool fencing regulations can feel overwhelming. Questions about above-ground pool legal requirements, minimum fence heights, council approvals, and safety setups arise quickly. No one wants to face fines or miss something crucial—especially if rules vary by postcode. 

What You’ll Learn

1. How local and national rules shape stock tank pool safety and fencing.

2. Ways to check your area's specific laws and approvals.

3. What council compliance really means for homeowners like you.

4. Steps to choose an option that suits both budget and backyard life.

Stock Tank Pool Fencing: Your Five Essential Decisions

• Recognizing Australian Stock Tank Pool Fencing Laws

• Council Approvals for Stock Tank Pools

• Choosing the Best Fence Types for Your Pool

• DIY Fencing vs. Professional Installation Options

• Key Urban Backyard Fencing Factors

Understanding Australian Pool Fencing Laws

If you’re considering adding a stock tank pool to your backyard, pool fencing is essential for safety and to comply with Australian pool fence regulations. Australian laws require a fence if your pool—stock tank included—can hold more than 300mm of water, whether your setup is temporary or permanent.

• Fence height: ≥ 1200 mm; ground gap: ≤ 100 mm.

• Vertical openings: ≤ 100 mm.

• Gate opens away from pool, self-closes, and self-latches; latch: ≥ 1500 mm (or shielded).

• Windows into the pool area open ≤ 100 mm or are security-screened.

• If a boundary fence is used as a barrier, it must be ≥ 1800 mm (pool side).

• Maintain a Non Climbable Zone (NCZ): keep 30 cm clear inside and 90 cm clear outside the fence.

• No doors from the house opening into the pool area for new pools.

These regulations are based on Australian Standard AS1926.1. They help prevent stock tank pool accidents and keep you clear of legal penalties for pool fencing violations.

We recommend checking your council's details before starting to ensure your pool—and any fence—meets mandatory fencing regulations.

Stock Tank Pool Classification and Exemptions Explained

Understanding stock tank pool legal classifications in Australia helps you navigate local regulations. If your stock tank pool holds more than 300mm of water, you're subject to above-ground pool fence rules and full portable pool safety compliance—this applies regardless of whether the pool is temporary or installed above ground.

This 300mm depth requirement is the threshold where nearly all popular models will need a compliant barrier. Council rules on stock tank exemptions don’t change simply because your tank is portable or labeled as a DIY project.

• Any pool deeper than 300mm must have certified fencing and a self-closing gate.

• Being above-ground or labeled “temporary” does not provide an exemption in Australia.

• Your local council establishes specific rules, which may be updated as temporary stock tank regulations shift.

At Stock Tank Pools Australia, we recommend checking directly with your council regarding which pools require fences and staying updated on any temporary regulation changes. 

Types of Pool Fencing Suitable for Stock Tank Pools

Choosing the right stock tank pool fence ideas helps you meet council requirements while matching your style. With strict backyard safety rules in Australia, a compliant barrier is required regardless of pool size or placement. Here’s how different options work in practice:

• Glass pool fencing provides a modern look and keeps garden views open—ideal for those wanting a sleek appearance near a patio or lawn.

• Aluminium fencing is popular for easy DIY installation, lightweight panels, and lower costs, making it suitable for families seeking a fast setup.

• Privacy fencing, such as Colorbond or modular options, provides seclusion and can accommodate custom layouts, which is helpful for close neighbours or uniquely shaped spaces.
  
  

Easy Steps for Compliant Stock Tank Pool Fencing

When you add a stock tank pool to your backyard, fencing becomes one of the first matters to address, especially with Australia’s strict regulations. Here’s our recommended process:

• Call your local council and confirm council paperwork (requirements vary slightly per council).

• Lodge BA2 (Uncertified) or BA1 for larger builds along with site and elevation plans, plus the Manufacturing Specification Sheet, including a Structural Integrity Certificate.

• Typical council fees range from $250 to $500.

• Once your BA2 or BA1 is approved, install the pool and compliant barrier.

• Book an inspection and lodge BA7 (Notice of Completion) within 7 days of finishing.

• Councils re-inspect approximately every 4 years. Avoid filling the pool above 300 mm until approved.

This simple stock tank pool fence compliance process helps you dodge fines and allows you to enjoy your backyard pool without stress. Every DIY pool you purchase from Stock Tank Pools Australia includes a comprehensive council approval guide with specific details on all steps, along with paperwork and site plan guidance, examples, provider referrals, and 1-on-1 phone support.

Considering a stock tank pool? Check out the The Family Plunge. It is a 2.4 m diameter, ~0.61 m deep stock tank pool that fits 5 adults comfortably. It's made from galvanized steel, imported from the USA and designed for backyards and small spaces.