Steinbach votes on new swimming pool bylaw

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This article was published 29/04/2022 (1116 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Steinbach city council unanimously approved first reading of a new bylaw governing swimming pools in the community, replacing the previous bylaw which was adopted in 1977.

The issue of swimming pools and the associated rules was presented to council at a Strategic Priorities Committee meeting several months ago, and staff were directed to come up with the new bylaw.

While the some of the language has changed, the rules are largely similar to the 1977 version.

The bylaw applies to any swimming pool that can contain a water depth of greater than 24 inches. The actual amount of water in the pool does not affect the regulations.

The bylaw calls for residents to have enclosures around their swimming pools of at least five feet in height and including self-closing gates. It can be made from various materials, but specific rules are in place for the type of chain link fencing or wood construction. The fence must not be climbable from the outside.

Penalties have also been adjusted.

In 1977 contravention of the bylaw could result in a fine of $100. According to the Statistics Canada consumer price index, that fine should equal $428.36 today.

However, council only doubled the fine to $200 for constructing a pool without the proper enclosure and installing and using a hot tub without a proper lockable cover or enclosure. Those constructing a pool without a building permit will face a $100 fine.

Paid promptly the fines are cut in half.