Introduction
By September 30, 2027, all residential pools in Quebec, including those in Montreal and all cities on the South Shore, must comply with the new Residential Pool Safety Regulation. This is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of our communities.
This requirement applies to all pool owners, including those installed before November 1, 2010, and who had acquired rights.
If you are planning to sell soon, obtaining your certificate of compliance is not just important; it’s a necessity to facilitate the transaction. Non-compliance could delay or even jeopardize your sale.
What is the new swimming pool law in Quebec?
A deadline: September 30, 2027
The new Residential Swimming Pool Safety Regulation, scheduled to come into effect on September 30, 2027, establishes strict and standardized standards for all pool owners.
This regulation marks the end of acquired rights for pools installed before November 1, 2010. All residential pools, without exception, are affected.
To ensure compliance with these standards, a permit issued by your municipality is required to replace or erect a structure that provides or prevents access to a pool.
Why this regulation? What is the objective?
The objective is clear: the regulation addresses a public safety issue. Annual statistics are unanimous: many tragic accidents could be avoided with adequate regulations.
Any drowning or risk of drowning of young children must be avoided at all costs. This regulation aims to minimize risks by requiring safety devices around pools 60 cm or deeper.
What are the new rules regarding swimming pools in Quebec? Who do they apply to?
All residential pools without exception
The regulation is uniform and applies to all cities in Quebec.
Under section 1 of the Regulation:
“A swimming pool is an artificial outdoor basin: permanent or temporary; intended for swimming; with a water depth of 60 cm or more; not covered by the Regulation respecting safety in public baths; and not a whirlpool or spa with a capacity of 2,000 liters or less.”
In this context, the Regulation respecting the safety of residential swimming pools applies to:
- above-ground pools;
- in-ground and semi-inground pools;
- as well as removable pools, whether inflatable or not.
- Spas and hot tubs with a water capacity of more than 2,000 litres must be considered above-ground swimming pools for the Regulations.
Exceptions
The Regulation does not apply to:
- Natural bodies of water (lakes, ponds, rivers)
- Water gardens and other artificial decorative pools
- Indoor swimming pools
- Swimming pools with a maximum depth of less than 60 cm
- Public swimming pools
- Swimming pools located in large residential buildings with one or more of the following characteristics:
- The pool area is greater than 100 m²
- The pool is equipped with a diving board
- Jacuzzis and spas with a capacity of 2,000 liters or less
Technical Requirements – What are the new standards for pool fencing in Quebec in 2025?
Secure fencing/”enclosure” around the pool
An enclosure must surround the following pools to protect access:
- In-ground and semi-inground pools
- Above-ground pools with walls less than 1.2 m thick
- Portable pools with walls less than 1.4 m thick
- The fence specifications must be met; it must have:
- A minimum height of 1.2 m along its entire length
- No holes or gaps larger than 10 cm, including above the fence
- No climbing elements (horizontal bars, projections, openwork decoration, etc.)
- Chain-link fence: If the mesh size is greater than 30 mm, slats must be added (applicable to fences installed/replaced since July 1, 2021) (some exemptions apply for older fences).
- A hedge is never considered an enclosure.
- A removable fence is permitted if it meets all the requirements and remains in place.
Shelter doors must comply with the following measures:
- Self-closing, with mandatory spring hinges.
- Self-locking: a self-closing latch must be installed inside at the top or outside at least 1.5 m from the ground.
- Wire mesh gates: Same rules as for fences (slats if the mesh is greater than 30 mm).
- In the case of a double gate: one remains locked (rod in the ground/both), the other closes and locks automatically.
Secure access for above-ground/removable pools without a cover
- Ladder: It must be equipped with a small self-closing and locking gate OR be surrounded by a small, compliant cover.
- Platform: Access to the platform must be protected by a cover.
- Terrace adjoining the house: the part overlooking the pool must be separated by a compliant cover.
Use of a perimeter wall as a fence
This option is permitted under certain conditions:
- Windows are permitted if:
- They are located more than 3 m from the exterior ground, OR
- A limiter must be installed to prevent them from opening more than 10 cm
- Fixed mosquito screens are permitted
- French doors:
- They must be equipped with an automatic closing and locking system
- The interior lock must be positioned at least 1.5 m from the ground
Clearance around the pool/shelter – 1-meter safety zone
A one-meter safety perimeter must be maintained around the pool and its shelter. No fixed objects that can be used as stepladders are permitted within 1 m of the pool/fence:
- No play equipment
- No retaining walls
- No unprotected stairs
- No pool equipment (pump, filter)
Diving boards must meet specific requirements
- Compliance with the BNQ 9461-100 standard is mandatory.
- Professional plans bearing the “Compliant for Diving Boards” logo are required.
- Minimum pool dimensions must be met.
4-step action plan for compliance
Perform a quick self-assessment:
Use this checklist:
- My pool is equipped with a compliant enclosure (1.2 m high, no opening larger than 10 cm).
- The gates are self-closing and self-locking.
- Access to above-ground/removable pools is secure.
- The 1 m clear zone is respected.
- Windows/doors on walls used as enclosures are secure.
- The necessary permits have been obtained.
Check Permit Requirements
A municipal permit is required for:
- The installation or replacement of a pool;
- The installation of a diving board;
- The installation of a shelter, platform, or deck providing access to the pool.
For portable pools, a permit is only required for the initial installation if you later replace it in the exact location and under the same conditions.
However, it is necessary to check with your municipality whether your work requires a permit.
For example:
In Montreal, an application is required for any fence installation or modification.
In Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, it is advisable to allow additional time for permit applications, as processing times vary.
Preparing the Permit Application
Submit the necessary documents:
- Your detailed plans
- Your certificate of location
- Photos of the pool and current facilities
- Details and specifications of the materials used
Execution and Inspection of Work
During the work:
- Ensure that temporary safety measures are in place (site fence, temporary locks, pool alarm, do not fill the pool before the work is completed) and complete the work within a reasonable timeframe.
After the work:
Prepare for municipal inspections, which will be increasingly frequent in the various municipalities on the South Shore of Montreal and in Quebec in general.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Fines and Penalties
- Between $500 and $1,000 per day of non-compliance
- $500 to $700 for a first offense
- $700 to $1,000 for a repeat offense
- Some municipalities apply higher penalties.
Impact on the market value of your property
On the South Shore, as in Montreal, an increasing number of buyers are now demanding proof of compliance before signing. Failure to comply with these rules can therefore have:
- A direct impact on price negotiations and sales times
- A lengthening of transaction times
Important Dates and Acquired Rights
Residential pools installed before November 1, 2010:
- Compliance required by September 30, 2027.
Possible exemptions:
For meshes > 30 mm without slats, these are permitted if the fence is old (any new element must, however, comply with the new rules).
Pools installed between November 1, 2010, and June 30, 2021:
- They must already comply with current standards.
Pools installed since July 1, 2021:
- No exemptions are granted (except for equipment purchased and installed before September 30, 2021).
Note: Any pool replacement requires installation that complies with current standards. No acquired rights are granted.
Common mistakes to avoid
| ❌ Common Mistake | ✅ Recommended Solution |
|---|---|
| Counting a hedge as a fence | Install a proper compliant fence |
| Gate without self-closing mechanism | Add spring hinges + automatic latch |
| Free-standing ladder for above-ground pool | Install a gate or small enclosure |
| Play structures/walls placed against the fence | Keep at least 1 m distance |
| Relying on old rights when replacing | Upgrade everything to current standards |
Practical advice tailored to your situation
For sellers:
- Obtain your certificate of compliance BEFORE listing.
- Consider the direct impact on negotiations.
- Avoid last-minute delays that could derail the transaction.
For new owners:
- Check compliance before signing a promise to purchase.
- Budget for compliance work if necessary.
- Consult your municipality for local requirements.
Conclusion
The September 30, 2027, deadline is fast approaching. Don’t wait! Whether you live in Montreal, Longueuil, Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, or elsewhere on the South Shore, ensure your pool is compliant to safeguard our children’s safety, avoid fines, protect your property’s value, and facilitate a future sale.
