Tache tightens pool fence rules

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This article was published 27/04/2017 (2919 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

An RM of Tache building inspector’s report on enclosures for private swimming pools prompted councillors to take an hour-long dive last week into the Manitoba Building Code, which ended with the creation of a $3,000 refundable deposit for any pool installation that proceeds before a suitable fence is in place.

Building inspector Dave Turcotte explained his suggestion to institute the deposit was prompted by pool installation companies obtaining permits but failing to contact him for an inspection. In his view, the lack of a deposit made it easy for bylaws on pool enclosures to be ignored.

The Manitoba Building Code requires all outdoor private pools with a depth greater than 60 centimetres must be surrounded by a 1.5-metre unclimbable fence equipped with a self-closing and lockable gate.

Previously, the municipality charged $75 for a pool permit. Turcotte asked council to institute the $3,000 refundable deposit for all new pools that do not yet have a code-compliant fence, and to raise the pool permit fee to $150, to cover the cost of more pool site inspections. The deposit amount was equivalent to those required by neighbouring municipalities, Turcotte said.

“If you don’t make it hurt a little, they won’t comply,” agreed Tache CAO Christine Hutlet.

Tache mayor Robert Rivard said a simple way to avoid paying the deposit was to build the fence before constructing the above-ground pool. Companies installing in-ground pools need more room to use large equipment, but can also easily front the deposit, he explained.

“And if you follow the rules, you get the money back,” he observed, adding later that the new deposit and permit increase struck the right balance between enforcement and education.

While the new deposit does not apply retroactively, Turcotte said complaints can still prompt inspections of existing pools.