What's the Best Type of Fencing for an Above Ground Pool?
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Above ground pool fencing isn't something you can just wing. Swimming pool safety is crucial. This applies to private swimming pools, spa pools, and backyard pools across Australia.
In Albury Wodonga, pool owners must meet Australian Standards and local council rules. A proper swimming pool barrier is important for safety, especially for kids, but there are other reasons too.
It also keeps you on the right side of pool fencing laws and helps you avoid those nasty fines nobody wants.
This guide covers the best fence types for above-ground pools. It explains pool fence height and gate rules. You’ll find tips to choose a barrier that boosts safety while fitting your budget and pool type.
Above Ground Pool Fencing Requirements (NSW & VIC)
Australia uses AS1926.1 for pools and spas deeper than 300 mm, which covers pretty much every swimming pool you'll encounter.
Your pool area must have a safety barrier. This includes:
A fence at least 1.2 m high.
Gaps no larger than 100 mm.
A self-closing, self-latching gate that opens away from the pool.
Clear, non-climbable zones around the fence.
If you're using boundary fences as part of your pool barrier, they generally need to be 1.8 m high on the pool side. Your local council will still want to check everything meets requirements, so don't think you can skip the official processes.
What Makes a Compliant Pool Fence?
Pool Fence Height
Minimum 1.2 m from ground level (higher if boundary fences form part of your barrier).
Openings and Clearances
No gap bigger than 100 mm under the fence or between vertical sections.
Pool Gates
Must swing outwards, be self closing and self latching, with the latch release positioned where small children can't reach it.
Non Climbable Zones
Keep anything kids can climb on (pumps, filters, planter boxes, outdoor furniture) out of the 900 mm zone around the outside of your barrier.
Ongoing Maintenance
You need to maintain the safety barrier so your pool meets the standard all the time, not just when it's first installed.
These rules apply to new pools, existing pools, and those built before recent updates. They cover temporary pools, wading pools, inflatable pools, and any swimming pools and spas deeper than 300 mm. So, don’t assume your spa pool or above-ground pool is exempt.
Best Fencing Options for Above Ground Pools
1. Powder Coated Aluminium or Tubular Steel (Most Popular)
This is what most pool owners end up choosing, and there's good reason for that. Lightweight panels with vertical pickets (spaced 100 mm or less) are specifically engineered. So your above ground pool meets AS1926.1 requirements without any fuss.
Why Does It Work for Ground Pools?
Cost effective, quick to install, handles our local heat and cold without problems, and needs minimal upkeep once it's in place.
The Downsides?
It's not as "invisible" as glass, so you won't get that seamless look. Also offers limited privacy unless you add some screening.
What’s It Best For?
Standard pool barrier around circular or oval above ground pool setups. Works well on sloping blocks where you need to step or rake the fence, and integrates nicely with existing boundary fences.
What You'll Pay?
Generally the most budget friendly route for pool owners. It usually costs less than glass and often less than quality timber builds.
2. Frameless or Semi Frameless Glass (Premium Look)
If you want your swimming pool barrier to look like it belongs in a design magazine, glass is hard to beat. Clear sightlines help with supervision and meet swimming pool safety laws. They also give your pool area a modern look.
Why Does It Suit Pools and Spas?
Clear view of the pool area. It’s tough against UV rays and moisture. This design boosts safety by keeping supervision lines clear of the house.
The Downsides?
Higher upfront cost compared to other options, and the glass needs occasional cleaning to keep looking its best.
What’s It Best For?
When you need to see the pool area from your home for safety, or when you want to improve the look of your backyard pool setup.
3. Timber or Colorbond Fencing (Privacy First)
Sometimes privacy matters more than views, especially for backyard swimming pools in built up areas. Solid panels give you privacy and wind protection. Timber can match your existing decks, while Colorbond is virtually maintenance free.
Why Does It Work?
Strong privacy, helps with noise and wind, and can work as part of a boundary pool barrier when built to the building code and Australian Standards.
The Challenges?
Timber needs regular sealing and painting to stay looking good. You have to avoid climbable rails on the pool side. Colorbond limits visibility for supervision unless you add windows or glass sections.
What’s It Best For?
Pool owners who want privacy and wind protection, or when your spa barrier needs to integrate with existing boundary fencing.
4. Removable Mesh or Modular Panels (Flexible and DIY Friendly)
Perfect for temporary or wading pools, inflatable pools, and situations where you need flexibility. Quick to install around above ground pools and can be removed off season when the pool isn't in use.
Why Does It Suit Temporary Pools?
Affordable starter kits are easy to set up for various pool types. They’re also perfect for renters who can’t make permanent changes.
What Should I Watch Out for?
Must include a compliant self closing gate system. The mesh and hardware need periodic inspection to make sure everything still meets standards. Won't give you any privacy.
What’s It Best For?
Above ground pool fencing that needs to be temporary, flexible, or budget conscious. Especially for inflatable pools and wading pools that aren't permanent installations.
Can You Use the Pool Wall or Existing Fences?
Pool Walls
This gets a bit tricky depending on where you live. In some places, an out of ground pool wall might count as part of your barrier if it meets the height and non climbable requirements.
But NSW has its own rules and generally won't let you use just the wall as your swimming pool barrier.
You'll still need a compliant gate and proper fencing at the ladder and access points. Always check with your local council before assuming the pool wall will do the job.
Existing Boundary Fences
If you have timber, Colorbond, brick, or masonry fences about 1.8 m high on the pool side, they can be part of your swimming pool barrier.
They must be non-climbable from the pool side. Also, they should work with compliant pool gates and return panels to fully enclose the pool area.
Keep all climbable items outside the non-climbable zone. Also, maintain the fence to ensure your safety barrier meets the standard.
Fencing Cost: What to Expect
Fencing costs depend on your pool type, materials, how many metres you need, and whether your installer can actually get to your pool area easily.
Aluminium or Tubular Steel
This is your most cost effective option for above ground pools. You get strong value for money and it's widely available, so you won't be waiting months for materials.
Glass
Highest upfront cost, but it lasts forever and looks amazing. Perfect when aesthetics and clear sightlines really matter for your pool area.
Timber or Colorbond
Pretty broad price range depending on what timber species you choose or what type of Colorbond panels you go with. Remember that timber needs ongoing maintenance to stay compliant.
Mesh
Lowest entry cost, which makes it great for temporary pools. Just make sure whatever kit you buy includes a compliant gate and all the hardware you need.
Don't forget to factor in licensed builder or installer fees. Plus the hardware costs, footings, and any local council permits or inspections. Professional installation helps your pool meet AS1926.1 requirements. It also lowers the chance of needing to redo any work that fails inspection.
Maintenance & Longevity
Whatever pool fence you end up with, a bit of regular care will keep it working properly for years:
Metal & Colorbond
Hose off dust and grime, touch up any chips before they rust, and check that hinges and latches are still working smoothly.
Glass
Clean the panels regularly so you can actually see through them. Periodically tighten spigots and hardware that can work loose over time.
Timber
Re-oil or repaint to handle our heat, frost and moisture. Keep horizontal rails off the pool side to avoid creating footholds kids can use to climb over.
Mesh
Inspect the fabric, poles and fixings each season, especially after strong winds or storms.
A properly maintained safety barrier will continue to enhance safety and extend the lifespan of your investment. Most importantly, it'll keep you compliant when council inspectors come around to check pools and spas.
Local Compliance for Albury Wodonga (Quick Checklist)
Register your pool or spa with council and follow their inspection process.
Meet AS1926.1 requirements: 1.2 m fence height, 100 mm maximum gaps, self closing gate that opens outward.
Keep the non climbable zone clear: move ladders, filters and pool toys outside this area.
Keep your paperwork: hang onto your relevant occupation certificate or final inspection report.
Recheck after changes: new decks, landscaping, or changes to your pool type can affect compliance.
Ready to upgrade your above ground pool fencing or need help navigating ground pool fence regulations?
Get in touch with local specialists for compliant, council ready solutions that actually work for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, absolutely. If your pool holds 300 mm or more of water, you have to install a compliant swimming pool barrier that separates the pool area from your house and yard. This includes a self closing, self latching gate that meets Australian Standards.
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You need a minimum 1.2 m fence height. If you're using any boundary fence as part of your barrier, it typically needs to be 1.8 m on the pool side. All gaps under or between sections must be 100 mm or smaller.
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Sometimes, but it's complicated. In some places, a barrier can help if it’s 1.2 m high and hard to climb. But in NSW, there are rules. You often still need proper barriers and gates at ladders and access points. Always check with your local council before assuming the pool wall is enough.
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For most pool owners, powder coated aluminium or tubular steel gives you the best mix of durability, value and compliance. Glass works brilliantly for premium looks and clear supervision. Colorbond and timber offer privacy when designed properly to the building code. Mesh suits temporary or wading pools that aren't permanent fixtures.
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If they hold 300 mm or more water, they need a compliant safety barrier, whether they're temporary pools, new pools, or existing pools. The depth matters, not whether it's permanent or inflatable.
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Gates that don't self close properly. Latch height that's too low for safety. Climbable objects left in the non climbable zone. Gaps bigger than 100 mm. Using boundary fences with horizontal rails on the pool side. Trying to rely on just the pool wall without securing ladder access.
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If you don’t know Australian Standards or local council processes, hire a licensed builder or specialist installer. This lowers your compliance risk and helps you get certified faster. Pool safety laws are strict and getting it wrong can be costly.
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Do seasonal checks of gate springs, latches and clearances, especially after any landscaping or deck work. Remember, pool owners are responsible for keeping the fencing for an above ground pool compliant all the time, not just when it's first installed.
Greg Hair, owner of Slide Living, has over a decade of experience in delivering high-quality landscaping and outdoor living solutions across Albury-Wodonga and surrounding regions.
Known for his attention to detail and great customer care, Greg has transformed hundreds of properties, specialising in everything from fencing, decking and home irrigation.
SLIDE Living is fully licensed and insured, ensuring top-notch workmanship and customer satisfaction on every project.
