A growing number of homeowners are opting for recreational ponds over a traditional swimming pool, but when it comes to regulations around water safety, it can be murky territory.
A backyard swimming pool has long been the must-have feature of a quintessential Australian home, routinely topping the list of the most popular keywords buyers are searching for on realestate.com.au.
But a new trend is prompting homeowners to swap their swimming pools for a natural alternative instead.
Natural ponds offer chemical-free alternatives to traditional swimming pools. Picture: realestate.com.au
These ponds, sometimes called recreational or swimming ponds, are designed around rocks, plants, and natural filtration systems. They promise a chemical-free swimming experience while blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Tony Murdoch, director at Haluja said the appeal is mostly about being gentler on the body.
“Being chemical-free is usually the main drawcard for people when they are exploring whether to go natural or traditional. This means natural pools are gentler on sensitive skin and there are no chemical odours or concerns around dosing if the system is not appropriately balanced,” he explained.
But that’s not the only attraction.
“The overall aesthetic of [a swimming pond] is another thing people love about this style of swimming area. Certain clients find they sit more organically within their garden space, as opposed to the traditional blue hue of a pool, which can be a bit jarring with natural elements,” Mr Murdoch said.
Currently on the market: 43 McKenzie Road, Eltham near Byron Bay has a natural swimming pond that's separately fenced off from the house. Picture: realestate.com.au
Swimming ponds can be an instant drawcard for buyers according to real estate agent Gemma Lutz from My Property Gem, who told realestate.com.au they “can absolutely add value” to a property.
“Many buyers like that the look is more integrated and ‘landscape-led’ rather than a hard edged pool format,” she said.
Swimming ponds are growing in popularity. Picture: realestate.com.au/sold
She pointed to one of her recent listings in regional Victoria that has a 3 metre deep natural swimming pond.
“It’s one of the first things people commented on because it feels so unique and lifestyle-focused compared to a standard pool," Ms Lutz said. "Many loved the idea of a chemical-free, natural swim, and described it as feeling like a ‘private retreat’ or ‘resort-style’ feature.
Just sold: This home in Tawonga South has a fully-fenced in 3m deep natural swimming pond. Picture: realestate.com.au/sold
“And the wildlife element has been a real highlight too — the purchasers who bought it were especially excited by the abundance of tadpoles and frogs, and the sense that the pond supports a thriving natural ecosystem.”
Despite the growing popularity of swimming ponds, there is a hidden danger that both homeowners and buyers alike need to be aware of: they sit in a grey area when it comes to safety regulations.
The National Construction Code and Australian Standard AS 1926 mandates strict fencing for swimming pools; defined as structures holding more than 300mm of water intended for swimming. But natural ponds often fall into a grey area.
The pond fits in with its natural surroundings. Picture: realestate.com.au/sold
While they function as swimming areas, they may not be classified as ‘pools’ under these regulations, meaning safety barriers aren't always legally required. Requirements vary by council, with some mandating barriers for deeper ponds while others have no rules at all.
To be on the safe side, Mr Murdoch recommends taking precautions regardless of legal requirements.
“Safety and compliance are critical considerations that can be misunderstood when it comes to natural swimming areas … we consider attributes like stepped entry zones, clear sight lines from living areas, planting that acts as a soft deterrent to unsupervised access, as well as extra lighting for enhanced visibility, even when those features are not strictly mandated,” he said.
Swimming ponds can fall into murky territory in relation to water safety requirements. Picture: realestate.com.au/sold
Ms Lutz agreed, noting safety features can give families peace of mind when searching for a home.
"Even where fencing isn’t strictly mandated, practical safety features can reduce buyer hesitation, especially for families," she said.
“Before going to market, it’s wise to speak with a qualified pool or dam safety specialist so you have the right information for that specific property."
Often designed around rocks, plants, and natural filtration systems, swimming ponds promise a chemical-free swimming experience. Picture: realestate.com.au/sold
Darren Milne from Naked Freshwater Pool Systems cautioned that even with proper fencing, natural ponds can pose other risks.
“Water quality can fluctuate depending on weather, temperature, usage and how well the ecosystem is balanced," he said.
"So while natural ponds and pools seem chemical free, natural pond swimming carries risks from poor water quality, harmful algae blooms, and physical dangers such as hidden underwater debris, steep, slippery banks, and deep mud.”
An alternative to natural ponds is traditional swimming pool with a freshwater system that’s been designed to look like a natural pond. Picture: Instagram | Naked Pools/Folbigg Pools
Mr Milne suggested opting for a traditional swimming pool with a freshwater system that’s been designed to look like a natural pond.
“People don’t have to compromise on design to make a smarter choice. You can still have an aesthetically striking pool with all the bells and whistles. Lush landscaping, planting around the pool and a seamless outdoor setting can all be achieved without the risks that come with decaying plant matter inside the water,” he said.
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