Do I need a permit to build a fence?

You may need a planning permit and a building permit when you build a fence.

If you need to block the road or footpath in order to build the fence, you will need a Road/Footpath Occupation Permit. 

What if I share a fence with neighbours?

You may need to discuss the shared fencing between yours and your neighbour's property.

We have no involvement in shared fences or any costs relating to shared fences. We cannot help if you are having a fence dispute with your neighbour.

If you are a private building surveyor, you can request details from us of adjoining properties. You can request these details online.

For more information, including which agencies to contact, visit the State Government's Fencing law in Victoria page.

Do I need a building permit?

You need a building permit for swimming pools and spas that are capable of containing water exceeding 30cm in depth. This also applies to indoor pools and above-ground pools.

Find out more on the Building permit application page.

Do I need a safety barrier?

You need a childproof safety barrier for all pools and spas that is capable of containing water exceeding 30cm in depth.

You also need a building permit for the construction of these barriers.

A safety barrier must have a self-closing gate with a self-latching device located at least 1.5m above the ground.

It is your responsibility to maintain safety barriers at your pool or spa.

More information can be found at the Victoria Building Authority's website and Royal Life Saving Australia's website.

How do I register a pool or spa?

If you own a property in Yarra with a swimming pool or spa, you need to register it with us. You must also have any safety barriers inspected by a licenced building surveyor or inspector.

Visit our pool and spa registration page to learn more.

Pool and spa registration

Water from a roof, or hard surfaces (such as driveways, roads or footpaths) flows into a stormwater drain, which drains into our waterways and then, ultimately, into Port Phillip Bay.

You are responsible for your drains up to the point of connection (the 'legal point of discharge') to our underground drainage system, kerb and channel or a constructed laneway.

For more information about stormwater drains, including how to apply for a legal point of discharge report, click on the link below:

stormwater drains and legal point of discharge