Before you do a cannonball into your new pool make sure it meets the proper regulations.

“As of late, we’ve noticed a number of pools that have been going up without their permits in place,” comments Jeremy Neufeld, who oversees the permit department for the RM of Hanover.

According to Neufeld, any in-ground or above-ground pool containing over 24 inches of water must be both permitted by the municipality and surrounded by a fence that is at least 1.5 meters high. He adds that the fence’s entrance gate must also be self-closing to coincide with the current standards,

“In the case of a hot tub," he continues, "some exceptions may be made providing that the lid is lockable and able to support the weight of an adult.”

Neufeld admits that it is difficult to monitor all of the pools tucked away in the backyards across his municipality, but he still encourages homeowners to comply.

“When we become aware of non-compliance, our bylaw officer will go, investigate, and deal directly with the homeowner,” says Neufeld. Though the RM enforces these rules, he emphasizes that they are actually requirements that come from the Manitoba Building Code.

“At the end of the day, we are trying to create a situation that is safe for everyone.”

Neufeld says the protective measures are in place not only for those who live on the property itself, but also to reduce the risk of other children wandering in uninvited.