Portable pool safety and water wise guide

If you’re thinking about setting up a portable pool to cool off this summer, it’s worth taking a moment to check the safety rules before the splashing begins and consider how to use water wisely at home.

In Queensland, any pool deeper than 300mm or holding more than 2000 litres must meet the same safety requirements as a permanent swimming pool. This includes many popular inflatable and above‑ground portable pools.

Pool Safety: Barriers and Clear Zones

To keep children safe, your pool must have a compliant swimming pool safety barrier. It’s also important to keep the area around the fence clear of anything climbable—such as outdoor furniture, pot plants, toys, or storage tubs. This reduces the chance of little ones accessing the pool unsupervised.

These Queensland-wide laws help reduce accidents and keep families safe while enjoying the outdoors.

Portable pools may be temporary, but the water they hold is a valuable resource—especially during hot Sunshine Coast summers. With a bit of planning, you can make your pool part of a more sustainable household routine.

1. Reuse the water where you can

When it’s time to empty your pool, the water doesn’t need to go to waste.
You can safely reuse it for:

• Watering gardens and lawns (great for hardy natives and established plants)
• Soaking dry garden beds before mulching
• Cleaning outdoor areas, such as decks and paved spaces

(Just avoid using chlorinated water on sensitive plants. Let it stand for a day or two so chlorine can dissipate.)

2. Choose a smaller pool to save more water

Selecting a pool that suits your space — not one that’s larger than you need — helps reduce filling and refilling.

3. Keep it covered between uses

A simple pool cover helps reduce evaporation, keeps the water cleaner for longer, and means fewer top‑ups.

4. Give the pool a second life

When your portable pool is no longer usable, look for recycling options:

• re-purpose as a pond liner
• cut into squares to patch other similar products
• if still in good condition, consider donating it to a local community group or family.

These small actions help reduce waste and make the most of the resources you already have.

Before filling your pool, take a few minutes to check your safety barrier and plan how you’ll manage the water. A little preparation can help your family stay safe, reduce waste and enjoy outdoor fun all season long.

Further Info

For more details on pool safety requirements, visit Sunshine Coast Council’s website or the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.