With the increasing complexity of pool fence regulations in Quebec, many pool owners are finding it increasingly burdensome to maintain their pools.
Each year, many in-ground pool owners face the same dilemma: continue to invest significant energy and funds to enjoy the pool for just a few weeks a year, or demolish it and replace it with a spa or a new outdoor layout.
But on June 1, 2021, Quebec’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing announced new private pool fence regulations Quebec aimed at reducing drownings number.
To comply with these new fence pool regulations, many pool owners will need to spend a lot of money. For those already considering removing their pool, these new regulations may push them toward demolition.
THE END OF A GRANDFATHERED RIGHT FOR POOLS BUILT BEFORE NOVEMBER 1, 2010
In response to a recommendation from several coroners, the MAMH decided to revoke a grandfathered right for pool owners who built their pools before November 1, 2010. Until now, they were not required to comply with the Residential Pool Safety Regulation, but this decision means they will have to adhere to it now.
DEADLINE POSTPONED TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
Initially, all in-ground pool owners, without exception, had to comply with the fence pool regulations by July 1, 2023.
However, the Quebec government has reversed its decision and announced that the deadline for compliance with pool fence regulations has been extended to September 30, 2025.
This decision was made due to supply chain issues and a labor shortage affecting the construction industry. As a result, in-ground pool owners now have a grace period of more than two years. Let’s now review what this new fence pool regulations entails.
NEW FENCE POOL REGULATIONS CONCERNING INGROUND POOL FENCES
A fence restricting access to the inground pool remains mandatory. It must:
- Be at least 1.2 meters tall;
- Prevent the passage of a spherical object with a 10 cm diameter;
- Be difficult to climb.
In addition to these basic requirements, there are more specific fence pool regulations regarding various elements.
FENCE POOL REGULATIONS ON STRUCTURES OR EQUIPMENT NEAR THE FENCE
To prevent young children from climbing and reaching the pool, no fixed structure or equipment can be placed within one meter of the fence.
FENCE POOL REGULATION ON CHAIN-LINK FENCES
Chain-link fences must not exceed 3 cm in width, preventing any spherical object the size of a golf ball from passing through.
To comply, owners of chain-link fences with larger links can insert slats into them.
FENCE POOL REGULATION ON ACCESS GATES
Any gate providing access to a pool must be equipped with an automatic closing and locking safety device.
Additionally, any deck adjacent to a pool must be surrounded by a fence that restricts access.
FENCE POOL REGULATION ON DIVING BOARDS
Pools equipped with a diving board must comply with the BNQ 9461-100 standard, which includes requirements regarding the minimum dimensions of the water envelope.
THINKING ABOUT DEMOLISHING YOUR INGROUND SWIMMING POOL? CALL EXCAVATION CHANTHIER
In conclusion, these new pool fence regulations aim to improve safety for private pools and reduce drownings of young children, a noble goal. However, it will result in significant expenses for many owners who want to continue using their inground swimming pools in compliance with the law.
There are even some people for whom it will be impossible to comply without completely rethinking their backyard layout, and they may decide to demolish their pool.
If this is your case, know that our team can offer you an all-inclusive pool demolition service, including a feasibility study, inground swimming pool removal, and filling the hole with soil. Depending on your request and needs, we can even handle the transport of waste to an authorized site. Contact us to safely get rid of your in-ground pool before next summer!