Pool Removal and the Council: Register, Inspection and Permits in Geelong

The City says if you no longer have a pool or spa, let it know so that it can remove it from its register, and its list of what to provide includes evidence that the pool has been removed, such as photos. Its building services fee list shows A$167.00 for subsequent visit and decommission inspections.

The permits

The City says an Asset Protection Permit is required before beginning any demolition, construction or other building works on a property, and that an application should be submitted at least three weeks before works begin. It also says any damage resulting from the works must be repaired or reinstated by the permit holder. The works it lists include installing a pool, with the permit obtained by the pool company, and not removing one.

What this page does not say

It does not say which permits your job needs, because the pages read do not. It says building permits are required for almost all new buildings, alterations, demolition and change of use, and that one is needed to construct a pool when the depth exceeds 300 millimetres; nothing on those pages covers filling in or removing a pool. It does not apply outside the City of Greater Geelong, for example in the Surf Coast Shire or the Borough of Queenscliffe.

Put each question to the City in writing and keep the answer. The costs page lists the same lines with their sources.

What does the City want to see?

Evidence that the pool has been removed, such as photos, along with the registration number and contact details it asks for when you tell it.

How far ahead do I apply for an Asset Protection Permit?

The City says an application should be submitted at least three weeks before works begin, if you are told you need one.

Who answers the permit question?

The City does. Its pages do not say whether removing or filling in a pool needs a building permit or an Asset Protection Permit.