Safety device for private swimming pools 

Verified 12 August 2021 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Private swimming pools for individual or collective use must be equipped with a safety device to prevent drowning risks, in particular for young children. The device must meet certain standards. If you do not comply, you are liable to a fine. Swimming pools on the ground, inflatable or demountable are not affected.

If you are the owner of a private swimming pool for individual or collective use (family swimming pool or swimming pool reserved for residents, hotel swimming pool, camping pool, country cottage...) whose pool is totally or partially buried, you must settle at least one of the following equipment:

  • Protective barrier
  • Audible alarm system (immersion alarm reporting the fall of a child into the water; or perimeter alarm informing about a child's approach to the pelvis)
  • Security cover (tarpaulin)
  • Veranda type shelter that completely covers the basin

Swimming pools on the ground, inflatable or demountable are not covered by this obligation.

It is recommended to settle your protective barrier approximately 1 meter away from your swimming pool.

Your equipment must comply with standards of the French Association for Standardization (Afnor).

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Protective barrier

It must comply with NF P90-306.

Alarm system

It must comply with NF P90-307.

Security cover

It must comply with NF P90-308.

Shelter

It must comply with NF P90-309.

The security device can be settled by you or by the seller or installer of your choice.

The seller or installer must provide you with a technical briefing note that includes the following:

  • Characteristics and conditions of operation and maintenance of the chosen safety device
  • General prevention and recommendation measures to avoid drowning risks

In respect of the owner

If your swimming pool is not equipped with a safety device, you may be fined €45,000.

In respect of the seller or installer

If the technical note is not provided, the seller or installer is liable to a fine of €45,000.

Fact sheets by life event