Dividing fences and pool owners

Dividing fences which also serve as a pool barrier are common practice in Queensland. In the majority of cases, the common boundary fence is the most efficient way to comply with the pool safety requirements.

The recent amendments to the Building Act 1975 (BA) aim to facilitate a common-sense approach to fencing work such as encouraging agreements between neighbours and 'like for like' replacement of fences.

For additional information please contact the Pool Safety Council.

• New rules for dividing fences which also serve as a pool barrier fact sheet ( 111 KB)
• Building Newsflash 484 - New laws for pool fences on common boundaries ( 75 KB)
• Notice of proposed fencing work for a pool barrier - form 39 ( 73 KB)
• Notice to contribute for urgent fencing work for a pool barrier - form 40 ( 106 KB)
• Agreement to contribute for fencing work for a pool barrier - form 41 ( 71 KB)

Dividing fences

Issues relating to dividing fences that are not pool barriers are captured under the Neighbourhood Disputes Resolution Act 2011. For further information please contact the Department of Justice and Attorney General on 07 3239 3520, or via email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

For additional information visit the Neighbourhood Disputes Resolution Act 2011 website.

Dispute resolution

A dividing fence dispute may arise if owners of adjoining properties disagree about fence construction or maintenance. Queensland Civil Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) has been given jurisdiction to hear disputes involving all types of fences on common boundaries including pool fencing. Both pool owners and adjoining owners have the right to apply to QCAT about fencing work.

For additional information visit the QCAT dividing fence disputes website.