How Much Does Pool Fencing Cost? [2024]

If you're installing a swimming pool, you also need to budget for pool fencing.

To protect children, pool fencing is now required by law throughout Australia. As long as the fence conforms to Australian Standards for pool fencing, the material you choose is up to you. In terms of cost, you can expect pool fencing to cost anywhere from $200 per linear metre for timber fencing, to $600 per linear metre for a high end frameless glass fence.

What type of pool fencing?

You can install any type of pool fencing, as long as it complies with the relevant Australian standard and local regulations. The main types of pool fencing include:

Metal: steel and aluminium are the most common metal options, as they are durable when powder coated (aluminium) or if marine grade steel is used. In terms of design vertical bars are not permitted, as they increase the likelihood of a child gaining a foothold.

Glass: glass has become the go-to pool fence, though you do pay for the privilege of having uninterrupted views. Each panel of safety glass is attached to a stainless steel or aluminum post with a spigot. Expect to choose between 8mm, 10mm and 12mm glass panels.

Glass pool fencing styles

Two basic styles of glass pool fencing are available:

1. Frameless glass fencing consists of a series of panels secured by specially designed ground-mounted brackets or spigots. This is the most expensive style.
2. Semi-frameless consists of glass panels separated by posts to which the panels are attached, and is less costly than frameless glass fencing.

Understanding pool fencing safety regulations

Pool fencing is designed to keep small children out of the pool area and must not be able to be climbed. Your pool fencing must not have gaps, footholds and must be rigid enough to withstand pressure being applied.

To that end, a number of specifications must be adhered to. These include:

• A minimum height of 1.2 metres to prevent small children from climbing over the fence.
• Mesh and perforated fences must have horizontal "apertures" (openings) no greater than 13mm on fences under 1.8 metres in height as measured from ground level.
• Chain link or mesh fences with openings of between 13mm and 100mm must be at least 1.8 metres tall. Openings greater than 100mm are not allowed.
• Gaps between vertical members of a fence cannot be greater than 100mm
• Pools can be walled in, but they must be at least 1.5 metres in height and gates, doors and windows must have self latching devices at least 1.5 metres above ground level.

There are a number of Australian Standards that govern pool fencing. This includes AS1926.1 (Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools and Spas) which covers fence height, the size of vertical gaps, a Non Climbable Zone (NCZ), horizontal members and the gap at the bottom of the fence. Local regulations do vary by state, and some require an inspection. From April 2016 in New South Wales all homes with a pool or spa pool need a certificate of compliance or an occupation certificate before they can be sold or leased.

Note that the regulations also cover spas, which must also be fenced. In some states Development Approval is also required for a new swimming pool, spa pool and pool fencing.

Learn more: Complete guide to pool fencing options and safety requirements

What about my pool gate?

Australian Standard AS 1926.1 stipulates that gates must only swing outwards. i.e. away from the pool area and must be fitted with a self closing device and latch. Gate latches must be at least 1.5 metres above ground level if installed outside the gate and at least 1.2 metres if installed inside. There must also not be an opening that would allow a child to open the gate from the outside.

What about maintaining my pool fencing?

You should keep your pool fencing and gate in working order by regularly checking that your gate and latch are operating as they should. Your fencing panels should also be checked for wear and tear, and all bolts should be regularly tightened.

How much does pool fencing cost?

There are number of elements to consider when you get a quote for pool fencing. Expect any quote to include the following materials:

• Fence panels
• Fence posts (semi-frameless glass)
• Channels (frameless glass)
• Gate panels (glass)
• Gate hinges
• Handrails
• Gate latch

Expect to be quoted in the region of:

• $200 to $350 per linear metre for a treated pine timber slat fence
• $450 to $600 per linear metre for a wrought iron fence
• $200 to $275 per linear metre for semi-frameless glass pool fencing
• $275 to $600 per linear metre for a frameless glass fence

Prices will vary based on the scale of your project, as well as the quality of glass and components.

Does my pool fencing installer need to be licensed?

It depends where you live. For example, in NSW a carpenter can install metal and glass fencing. Glaziers can install glass and acrylic fencing, such as pool fencing. In other states a builders licence may be required.

If in doubt check with your local council or licensing authority.

Hiring a pool fence installer

When it comes time to hiring a pool fence installer, take time to make sure they are right for your job. Some questions to ask then include:

• Are you licensed or qualified?
• Are you insured?
• How long will my job take?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up?
• Can I see examples of your work?
• What warranty do your products carry?

You should also ensure that your installer confirms in writing that your pool fence will be installed in accordance with the latest Australian Standards.

Getting quotes for pool fencing

It costs nothing to get quotes for pool fencing supply and installation. Your installer will also be able to help you through the council approval process.

Looking for inspiration? Why not browse our pool fencing designs gallery - you might just see something that you like.