Pools and Spas
On Stage 2 water restrictions, can I fill my new spa or pool?
A new pool or spa of up to 2,000 litres can be filled with drinking water. However, a new pool or spa of greater than 2,000 litres must not be filled for the first time except in accordance with a Water Conservation Plan approved by Yarra Valley Water.
Can I fill a pool or spa of less than 2,000 litres?
Yes, an existing pool or spa of less than 2,000 litres e.g., an infant's play pool - can be filled with drinking water. However an existing* pool or spa with a capacity of 2,000 litres or more must not be filled except in accordance wih a Water Conservation Plan prepared by the owner and approved by Yarra Valley Water.
*Existing means the pool was set-up permanently and at least 75% full at the time when the prevailing stage of restrictions was declared.
What about topping up my pool or spa - have the rules changed?
Yes, on Stage 2 water restrictions you are able to top up an existing pool or spa using either a handheld hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or a watering can or bucket, filled either by a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, or directly from a tap.
How can I ensure my swimming pool is water efficient?
You can take these three easy steps to transform your pool into a Water Neutral Pool, which can save more than 6,000 litres of water every year:
- Install/use a water tank for topping up
- Use a cover to reduce evaporation
- Install a backwah minimisation system to prevent unnecessary water loss.
The Water Neutral Pool initiative is supported by Yarra Valley Water and the other greater metropolitan water retailers. For more information, visit www.spasavic.com.au
What do I have to do if my pool needs repairs? The work requires that the pool be drained and I’d like to refill it with drinking water....
Existing* pools with a capacity greater than 2,000 litres that require repairs can only be refilled where a customer can provide both a Water Conservation Plan and a detailed structural report from an independent contractor regarding the repairs that need to be undertaken.
*Existing means the pool was set-up permanently and at least 75% full at the time when the prevailing stage of restrictions was declared.
If you need to perform maintenance or repairs on your pool, please contact Yarra Valley Water before initiating works. You will need to apply for an exemption and will be required to provide the following:
- A detailed structural report from an independent contractor (your pool company) regarding the repairs that needs to be undertaken
- Photo(s) of the pool showing why the repair is necessary
- A completed exemption application form
NOTE: The applicant must be the customer who is requesting that the pool to be filled.
or
An application must be submitted prior to any repairs being undertaken.
There is a limit of one pool exemption per property every four years.
We assess each application individually and submission of an application does not equate to an automatic approval.
We reserve the right to undertake random audits for compliance with your Water Conservation Plan.
If using a bucket, please be aware of potential drowning risks for small children. Click here for more information (PDF 120KB) or visit kidsafe.vic.com.au for more information.
Swimming Pool Water Conservation Plan and Exemption Application (PDF 134KB)