Barrier Compliance Certificates
What is a Certificate of Barrier Compliance (Form 23)?
A Certificate of Barrier Compliance confirms that your pool or spa safety barrier meets the required safety standards. A registered inspector will check the barrier and issue this (also known as Form 23) if it complies.
As the owner of a property on which a pool or spa is located, you are obligated to lodge a new Certificate of Barrier Compliance every 4 years.
How to lodge your Certificate of Barrier Compliance
After the inspector issues a Certificate of Barrier Compliance, it is your responsibility as the owner to lodge the certificate with Council within 30 days of the date of issue.
How to Lodge Online
- You must submit the certificate to the Council through your My Port Phillip account within 30 days of issue.
- If you don’t have an account, register online, and the Council will confirm your account within two business days.
- Once your account is set up, go to ‘Apply for a permit’ → ‘Swimming Pool and Spa Registrations’ to upload your certificate.
Fees & Payment
- A $22.50 fee (for the 2024/25 financial year) applies for each lodgement, set by the Victorian Government to cover administrative costs.
- Payment can be made via credit card, debit card, or BPAY.
Confirmation & Next Steps
After lodging, you will receive a written notice confirming:
- The lodgement date of your certificate.
- The due date for your next certificate, which is four years after the previous certificate.
If you are not able to register online, you can send your compliance certificate by:
Email: helpbuilding@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Mail: Private Bag 3, St Kilda Victoria 3182
What Happens If Your Barrier Fails the Inspection?
If the inspector finds that your pool or spa barrier does not meet the required standards, they will issue a Barrier Non-Compliance Certificate and send it to Council.
Next Steps:
- You will be notified and required to pay a $411.50 fee.
- The Council will review the certificate and may:
- Issue a Barrier Improvement Notice to the property owner.
- Inspect the property to decide if a Building Notice or Order is needed.
The Council will work with you to make sure the issues are rectified so your barrier meets safety standards.