PLANNING A POOL IN BRISBANE?
Check this list before you start.
A little planning now can save you time, money and
frustration later. Use our updated 2026 checklist to make
sure you’re ready before you meet your pool designer.
Plan well. Build once. Love it for years.
THE CITYSCAPES CHECKLIST
12 Things to Check Before Engaging a Pool Designer
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Work through this checklist before your first design meeting. You don’t need to have every answer sorted — but the more
you can tick off now, the smoother (and more accurate) your design and quote will be
What do we want from our pool?
Think about how you’ll use it now and in the future (family, entertaining, fitness, relaxation).
Read our story: Will Your Backyard Still Work in 10 Years? →Do we need a survey or soil information?
Depending on your site, a current survey or geotechnical report may be required.
What does our budget need to cover?
Consider the complete project — pool, surrounds, fencing, landscaping, equipment and site-specific costs.
What approvals or site restrictions could apply?
Pools require building approval in Queensland and planning approval may also be needed. Check council requirements and any overlays.
Brisbane City Council – Pools Information →Where can the pool actually go?
Think about sun, shade, views, trees, boundaries, slope and how it connects with your home.
Read our story: Think Your Backyard is Too Small for a Pool? →Have we designed the pool and fencing together?
Where the pool sits can affect fencing, gates, boundary fences, neighbouring structures and landscaping.
Read our story: Pool Fencing Rules Brisbane →Can machinery get into the backyard?
Measure the narrowest access points (gates, side passages, overhead restrictions) so we can plan the right equipment.
Read our story: How We Get Pools In (Even With Difficult Access) →What finishes will actually work around our pool?
Think about tiles, coping, surrounds and landscaping. Consider heat, slip, maintenance and how they look outdoors.
What’s underneath — and above — the site?
Check for underground services, easements and overhead powerlines. Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) is a free service that can help you locate underground infrastructure.
Check Before You Dig — Free BYDA Search →What water system and equipment suit us?
Think about salt or mineral, heating, lighting, cleaning, automation and where equipment will be located.
Read our story: Salt or Mineral Pool? →Are we building or renovating the house too?
If so, design the pool early to get the levels, access and outdoor areas right.
Read our story: Planning Your Pool Before You Build Your Home →When do we want to swim?
Work backwards from your ideal completion date and allow time for approvals, construction and weather.
Read our story: Can Rain Delay Your Pool Build? →