Pool owners across Tauranga are being reminded to have adequate fencing around their pools, or risk facing a fine.

This year, Tauranga City Council's Pool Safety Compliance team are asking people to get familiar with the safety rules they need to follow before purchasing an above-ground portable pool.

Pools with side walls less than 1.2m high may require a compliant pool safety barrier.

As a pool owner, people are responsible for maintaining and ensuring the effectiveness of all pool safety barriers on your property, including all doors and windows which may provide direct access to the immediate pool area.

Pools must be fenced, whether they're permanent or portable - especially pools under 1.2m high. Fencing your pool is an important step towards keeping everyone safe, especially children who are at risk of drowning in an un-fenced pool.

Failing to have adequate barriers would breach the Building Act 2004, and you may receive a $500 fine.

"A portable pool with side walls that can't be climbed may not require a safety barrier, but if the pool can be accessed by a portable ladder, it is important to ensure the ladder is removed while not in use," says building compliance team leader Denise Hyde.

"The ladder should be secured away from the pool or stored inside it so a small child cannot access it.

"Our pool safety compliance staff are more than happy to offer advice specific to your pool and property, however, for practical installation or maintenance work, you may need to talk to a local builder or pool barrier supplier/installer."

In addition to pools requiring a safety barrier, if you are looking at filling a new pool this summer, make sure you double-check the Water Watchers Plan for pool-filling guidelines.

Pools that require more than 300 litres will need an approved Smart Water Plan between December 2022 and February 2023.

It is free to apply for a plan.

For Smart Water Plans to be approved, your pool will need:

• A filtration system to circulate and clean the water.
• Chlorine to keep the water clean.
• A pool cover is highly recommended.

To apply for a Smart Water Plan, visit www.tauranga.govt.nz/smart-water-plan-application.

For more information about swimming pool safety barriers, visit council's website.