A Comprehensive Guide
Pool and Spa Decommissioning in Victoria
Decommissioning a pool or spa in Victoria is a complex process that involves compliance with local government regulations, engineering requirements, and environmental considerations. The aim is to ensure the pool can no longer hold more than 300mm of water, effectively removing it from the municipal pool register. Following these steps meticulously not only avoids penalties but also ensures the site remains safe and usable for future development. This comprehensive guide offers everything you need to know about decommissioning pools and spas, including legal obligations, engineering advice, permit requirements, and council involvement.
At Orb Excavations, we take the stress out of the process by managing every aspect of pool decommissioning, ensuring compliance at every step.
Why Decommission a Pool or Spa?
Pool decommissioning is required when a pool or spa is no longer in use or poses maintenance or safety concerns. Owners may choose to decommission their pools for several reasons:
- Avoid Ongoing Maintenance Costs: Pools and spas require regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment servicing. Decommissioning can reduce these recurring expenses.
- Eliminate Compliance Requirements: Registered pools must lodge a Certificate of Pool and Spa Barrier Compliance (CBC) every four years, adding an administrative burden and costs. Decommissioning eliminates this requirement.
- Repurpose or Sell Property: Inactive pools can limit a property’s use or marketability. Proper decommissioning opens opportunities for landscaping, development, or resale without concerns about pool-related obligations.
- Manage Safety Risks: Pools that are not maintained properly can become safety hazards, particularly for children or pets. Decommissioning mitigates this risk by ensuring the structure cannot hold hazardous water levels.
Key Decommissioning Methods
There are several methods to decommission a pool or spa. The choice of method depends on the type of pool, its location, and your future plans for the property.
Relocatable Pools and Above-Ground Spas
Relocatable pools (such as inflatable or portable pools) are easy to dismantle but still need to follow council procedures.
- Complete Dismantling and Removal: Relocatable pools must be fully dismantled and removed from the property. All parts, including the frame, liner, and filtration system, must be taken down to prevent water retention.
- Alternative for Spas: Above-ground spas may be disabled by drilling 4-6 holes (50mm diameter) at the bottom, preventing water accumulation.
- Council Proposal: If unsure about dismantling, you can submit a decommissioning plan to the local council’s building department for approval.
Tip: Ensure you notify the council if the pool has been on-site for more than three days, as this requires formal registration.
In-Ground Pools and Permanent Spas
These pools are more challenging to decommission due to their permanent construction. Below are two main options:
Option 1: Complete Removal
- Demolition Permit Required: If the pool is within 2 metres of a boundary or another building, you must obtain a demolition permit. This ensures the removal won’t affect surrounding structures.
- Excavation and Backfilling: Once the pool is removed, the excavation must be backfilled with engineer-approved soil. Compacting the backfill in 300mm layers ensures the ground remains stable and avoids subsidence.
- Engineering Advice: A geotechnical or structural engineer should confirm the type of soil used to match the site’s specific conditions.
Why Complete Removal? This option ensures the site can be fully repurposed for future developments, such as landscaping, construction, or resale, without further complications.
Option 2: In-Situ Burial (Leave the Pool in Place)
If complete removal is not feasible, the pool can be left buried in place with modifications:
- Cut at Least Two 500mm x 500mm Holes in the deep end to allow water drainage and prevent retention.
- Remove Filtration Systems, Ladders, and Debris to ensure the pool cannot be reused.
- Fill the Structure with Backfill Material: Compact the soil in 300mm layers to prevent future shifting or sinking.
- Optional Wall Reduction: In some cases, cutting down pool walls can improve stability during backfilling.
Drawback of In-Situ Burial: This method can limit future property developments as the buried pool may interfere with excavation or require additional permits for future use.
Council Involvement and Documentation Requirements
Notify the Council and Provide Evidence
- During the decommissioning process, you must keep the council informed by submitting photos and detailed reports at every major stage (e.g., cutting holes, backfilling).
- Inspection Requirements: The council will conduct an inspection to verify the pool’s decommissioning and confirm that it no longer holds water deeper than 300mm.
Removal from the Municipal Register
Once the pool passes the inspection, the council will:
- Remove the pool or spa from the register, eliminating the need for a Certificate of Pool and Spa Barrier Compliance (CBC).
- Notify the owner in writing that the pool has been decommissioned and is no longer subject to CBC requirements.
Legal and Permit Requirements
- Demolition Permit: Required for pools near boundaries or structures to prevent damage.
- Certificate of Pool and Spa Barrier Compliance (CBC): Pools that remain on the register require CBC submission every four years. Decommissioned pools are exempt.
- Recommissioning Requirements: If you wish to recommission the pool in the future, a new building permit is required along with the installation of compliant safety barriers.
Using a Decommissioned Pool as a Pond
If you wish to convert a decommissioned pool into a pond, follow these steps:
- Remove all filtration systems and block inlets with concrete.
- Inject concrete into jets and skimmer boxes to prevent water circulation.
- Update Land Information Certificate: The council will add a note to the certificate indicating the pool is now a pond.
- Barrier Requirements: A compliant barrier may still be required around the pond to prevent accidents.
Common Challenges in Pool Decommissioning
- Impervious Soil or High Water Tables
- These conditions may require additional engineering solutions such as drainage systems to prevent waterlogging.
- Waste Disposal Compliance
- All demolition debris must be transported to approved waste facilities. Documentation of proper disposal is required to avoid fines.
- Future Development Restrictions
- Pools left buried in place may interfere with future construction and may need to be removed entirely at a later stage, requiring additional permits.
How Orb Excavations Can Assist with Pool Decommissioning
At Orb Excavations, we provide end-to-end pool decommissioning services that include:
- Initial Consultation: Assess your pool and recommend the best decommissioning method based on site conditions.
- Permit Handling: Manage demolition permit applications and council communication.
- Engineering Support: Work with geotechnical engineers to ensure proper backfilling and site stability.
- Waste Disposal: Ensure all debris is removed and disposed of at licensed facilities.
- Documentation Management: Submit reports and photos to the council for a smooth inspection process.
A Stress-Free Path to Compliance
Decommissioning a pool or spa in Victoria requires careful planning, engineering expertise, and compliance with Victorian Building Authority regulations. Whether you choose complete removal or in-situ burial, following the correct steps ensures a safe and compliant process. By working with Orb Excavations, you’ll have the peace of mind that every aspect of the project is handled professionally.
Get Started Today with Orb Excavations
Contact Orb Excavations today for a consultation and free quote. We’ll ensure your pool decommissioning project is completed smoothly, safely, and in full compliance with all regulations.