Aquatic facilities require environmental health approval and possibly planning and building approvals. Learn about requirements and how to apply.
Definition
Aquatic facilities include swimming pools, spas, water playgrounds, slides, hydrotherapy pools, float pods, and similar amenities that are accessible to the public, provided in multi-residential complexes or associated with a home business such as bed and breakfasts.
Private residential swimming pools fall outside this definition.
Overview of requirements
Outlined below are the approvals required for aquatic facilities:
- Planning approval: Development (planning) approval may be required depending on the business location and the permitted land use.
- Building approval: A building permit is required for constructing a new building or making additions to an existing building. Fitouts to an existing building may require a building permit, please refer to the Department of Energy Mines industry Regulation and Safety Bulletin. An occupancy permit may also be required.
- Environmental Health approval: Approval to construct, alter or extend an aquatic facility is mandatory. Approval must come from the Department of Health’s Chief Health Officer.
Important note: Before proceeding with your applications, we strongly recommend contacting the City via email to discuss your specific project. This initial consultation allows us to provide tailored guidance on the approvals required and the recommended order for application submissions. This step is crucial to ensure that you follow the correct process for your business needs.
How to apply for aquatic facility approval
If planning approval is required, you can learn how to apply, understand the assessment process, and discover the applicable fees on the Requirements for planning applications page.
The application form, checklist, assessment process, and fees can be found on the Requirements for building applications page.
Important note: A Building Permit cannot be issued unless an approval to construct an aquatic facility has been issued by the Department of Health (WA).
Approval to construct, alter or extend an aquatic facility is determined by the Department of Health’s Chief Health Officer (CHO).
To find out how to apply for health approval, including the application form and checklist, visit the Department of Health website.
Aquatic facility sampling
The City routinely samples water quality at all aquatic facilities within the City. A monthly sampling fee of $36 is charged per visit.
More information and contact
For further details on aquatic facilities, contact the City's Customer Care team on 9400 4000 or email info@joondalup.wa.gov.au.