Securing my pool

The Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l'Habitation has adopted the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Regulations which applies to all Quebec municipalities, and municipalities are obliged to enforce it.

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Residential swimming pools, whether above-ground, in-ground or even demountable, represent a major drowning hazard for young children, especially when they are away from adult supervision and the installations are not adequately secured.

Visit Residential Swimming Pool Safety RegulationsQuebec government regulation, is essentially aimed at controlling access by young children to residential swimming pools through simple measures, such as the installation of an enclosure fitted with a safety door. It stipulates that a municipal permit is required for work relating to the construction of a pool and its installations, such as a deck, platform or enclosure.

In response to a recommendation made by several coroners in recent years, the by-law has been amended and will now apply to all pools, regardless of when they were installed. Owners of residential pools have until September 30, 2025 to make their installation compliant.

To facilitate this transition, we have compiled relevant information and various self-assessment forms suitable for each type of installation. We'll also be sending out patrollers to check as many pools as possible. These courtesy visits can help you to target the interventions required at your facility, if any.

Documents to consult

The following documents are taken directly from Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Visit summary document for the general public presents at a glance the requirements for residential pools.

Visit regulation application guide provides details on the application of the provisions of the By-law respecting the safety of residential swimming pools. It is intended primarily for municipal officials responsible for enforcing the by-law, but can also be a source of pertinent information for homeowners wishing to install or replace a residential pool.

Visit frequently asked questions answers key questions about the requirements for residential pools.

To check whether your current installation meets standards, or to find out more before buying a residential pool, use the self-assessment form for the type of installation you want.

Assessment forms from the Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l'Habitation for more information

• In-ground pool
• Semi-inground pool
• Above-ground pool with a wall height of 1.2 metres or more
• Above-ground pool with a wall less than 1.2 metres high
• Demountable pool with a wall height of 1.4 metres or more
• Demountable pool with a wall less than 1.4 metres high