Separation distances required between pools and spas, and electrical infrastructure
This information bulletin has been developed for homeowners, body corporate committees and pool and spa installers. It provides details on the separation distance requirements that will impact on how close pools, spas and electrical infrastructure can be installed from each other. These separation requirements apply to all residential and commercial settings.
The Australian Standard AS/NZS 3000:2018 Electrical Installations “Wiring Rules” and the Power and Water Corporation Installation Rules require a separation distance so that pools and spas, electrical infrastructure are not installed in close proximity to each other.
For the purpose of this bulletin, the following are considered electrical infrastructure:
- Electrical meter box
- Switchboards
- Engine-driven generators
- Solar PV Systems (standalone and grid connected)
- Solar PV Batteries systems (standalone and grid connected)
- Aerial service cable (2 or 4 core twisted).
Restricted zones for swimming pool
The Australian Standards details two restricted zones for electrical infrastructure around swimming pools to ensure there is an appropriate separation distance.
Zone 1 is a 2 metre distance extending from the water’s edge surrounding the swimming pool. No electrical infrastructure is allowed within Zone 1. If you are installing a new swimming pool and the proposed location will have electrical infrastructure in the Zone 1 area, you will need to either choose a new location for the pool or have a licensed electrician move the electrical infrastructure outside of the zone.
Zone 2 is an additional area extending 1.5 metres from the edge of Zone 1 surrounding the pool. Only electrical equipment associated with the pool (i.e. pool pump) can be installed in Zone 2, provided the installation has the appropriate water resistance or protection. It is recommended that you hire a licenced electrical contractor to assist with the installation of the pool equipment.
Restricted zone for spas or hot tubs under 5000 litres capacity
For spas or hot tubs that hold less than 5000 litres of water, the Zone 1 distance is reduced to 1.25 meters around the spa or hot tub. Spas and hot tubs do not have a Zone 2.
Protecting the infrastructure to reduce the restricted zones
The Australian Standard may allow the restricted zones to be reduced if the electrical infrastructure is protected by splash proof barrier. The barrier must impermeable, be at least 1.8 metres high, extend past the infrastructure it is protecting so no water can be splashed onto the equipment.
If you are consider this option, first contact the NT WorkSafe Electrical Safety Team on 1800 019 115 to discuss your situation before proceeding with any work.
If the electrical infrastructure the proposed barrier is protecting is the meter box and metering equipment, this infrastructure on your property belongs to Power and Water and they will need to agree on how you plan to protect their infrastructure before you start work.
Keep clear of your Aerial Service Cable
If you live in an area with overhead power lines and your home is connected by an aerial service cable, it is against Power and Water’s rules to have the aerial service cable cross over swimming pool or spa. Make sure your pool or spa is installed away from the aerial service cable.
What happens if I don’t have required separation distances?
You will be issued with an electrical safety improvement notice that will require you to rectify the issue within 28 days. The Electrical Safety Inspectors are available to provide advice and work with you to ensure the electrical safety and compliance of your home.
If required assistance or technical advice, contact the NT WorkSafe Electrical Safety Team on 1800 019 115.