With the summer heat, it is certainly enjoyable to cool off in one’s own backyard. However, the City of Steinbach reminds residents that with the joy of owning a pool comes the responsibility of safety and maintenance.
“Many people incorrectly believe they can simply purchase a pool and set it up in their yard,” said Community Services Officer, Trevor Schellenberg. “The reality is if the pool you purchase is capable of holding 24 inches of water, you are required to have an enclosure around the entire pool before setting it up in your yard.”
Some of the most important requirements for outdoor pools include:
- A building permit is required to construct a pool located outdoors, which is capable of containing over two feet of water.
- All outdoor pools must be completely enclosed with a wood or chain link fence of the proper gauge or another approved suitable barrier.
- Fences must have a minimum vertical height of five feet and a maximum vertical height of six feet, six inches; must have no openings through which a child could crawl; and must be maintained in good repair.
- Any gates must be self-closing, meaning the gate closes automatically without the aid of a push or pull from a person; must be at least five feet in height; and must be equipped with a lockable latch to prevent unauthorized entry.
- It is not permitted to fill the pool with more than two feet of water before the fencing has been completed.
It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that these and other regulations are met, in particular that the fencing is in good repair and that the pool area is securely maintained at all times.
“We want to make sure people are enjoying their pools while keeping safety at the forefront,” said Schellenberg.
View more detailed information about the City of Steinbach’s construction requirements for outdoor pools.
