Frameless Pool Fencing Melbourne — Safety & Style Guide (2025)

Frameless glass pool fencing delivers an unobstructed view, modern aesthetics, and full compliance with Victoria's pool safety standards. If you're installing or upgrading pool fencing in Melbourne, this guide covers everything you need to know—from Australian Standard AS1926.1 requirements to glass specifications, hardware, installation, costs, and long-term maintenance.

Whether you're building a new pool, renovating an existing one, or replacing non-compliant fencing, frameless glass is one of the most popular choices for bayside and urban properties across the Mornington Peninsula and South-East Melbourne.

Victoria Pool Fencing Compliance (AS1926.1)

All pool fencing in Victoria must comply with Australian Standard AS1926.1-2012 (Safety barriers for swimming pools) and the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) pool safety guidelines. Non-compliance can result in fines, insurance exclusions, and legal liability if an incident occurs.

Key Compliance Requirements

• Barrier height: Minimum 1,200mm from finished ground level (or from any climbable surface within 900mm of the fence).
• No climbable zones: Objects, ledges, or horizontal rails that could be used as footholds must be at least 900mm from the fence, or 300mm from the top of the barrier if inside the 900mm zone.
• Gap limits: No gap under or between panels greater than 100mm. Vertical gaps (e.g., between gate and post) must be ≤100mm.
• Self-closing, self-latching gates: Gates must close and latch automatically from any open position. Latches must be at least 1,500mm above ground (or 1,350mm if shielded to prevent reach-through).
• Openings in glass or barriers: Any opening must be small enough that a 100mm sphere cannot pass through.
• CPR signage: Mandatory CPR chart displayed within 3m of the pool barrier gate.

Council Inspections: Most councils require a final pool barrier inspection before issuing an occupancy permit or certificate of compliance. Always check with your local council (Mornington Peninsula Shire, Frankston City, Bayside, Kingston, etc.) to confirm specific requirements and book the inspection.

Frameless vs Semi-Frameless vs Aluminium

Choosing the right pool fencing depends on budget, aesthetics, site conditions, and maintenance preferences. Here's how frameless glass compares to the two main alternatives:

Feature	Frameless Glass	Semi-Frameless Glass	Aluminium Slat
Visibility	Unobstructed, minimal hardware	Visible posts every 2–3m	Limited view through slats
Aesthetics	Modern, premium, seamless	Clean but visible framing	Contemporary, industrial look
Cost (per metre)	$350–$600	$280–$450	$180–$350
Maintenance	Regular cleaning (salt, water marks)	Moderate (glass + posts)	Low (powder coat may fade)
Durability	Excellent (12mm toughened glass)	Excellent	Excellent (marine-grade aluminium)
Best For	Coastal/bayside properties, high-end renovations	Budget-conscious with style preference	Cost-effective compliance, windy sites

Frameless glass is ideal if: You want maximum visibility, a premium look, and are willing to commit to regular cleaning. It's the top choice for bayside homes in Mornington, Mount Eliza, Hampton, and Chelsea.

Semi-frameless is ideal if: You like the glass aesthetic but want to reduce costs slightly. The aluminium posts provide extra rigidity on uneven ground or windy coastal sites.

Aluminium slat is ideal if: Budget is a primary concern, or you need a durable, low-maintenance solution that still looks modern. Popular for rental properties and family homes where glass cleaning is impractical.

Glass & Hardware Specifications

Frameless pool fencing uses premium materials engineered for strength, safety, and longevity. Understanding the specs helps you assess quotes and ensure compliance.

Glass Specifications

• Thickness: 12mm toughened (tempered) safety glass—mandatory for AS1926.1 compliance. Some installers offer 10mm for gates only (not panels).
• Type: Heat-treated toughened glass that shatters into small, blunt fragments if broken (reducing injury risk).
• Finish: Clear (most common), frosted, or tinted. Clear glass provides maximum visibility; frosted offers privacy; tinted reduces glare.
• Edge treatment: All edges polished smooth. Top edge may be rounded or have a protective cap strip.
• Panel sizes: Typically 1,200mm high × 900–2,400mm wide. Custom heights (e.g., 1,500mm) available for sloped sites or council requirements.

Hardware Specifications

• Spigots (core mounts): Grade 316 marine stainless steel spigots anchor each glass panel to the ground. Spigots are spaced 900–1,200mm apart (typically 2 per panel). Core-drilled into concrete or paving; chemical anchors or expansion bolts secure them.
• Gate hinges: Self-closing 316 stainless steel hinges with adjustable tension springs. Must meet AS1926.1 self-closing requirements.
• Latches: Magnetic or D-latch mechanisms mounted at 1,500mm height (or 1,350mm with safety shield). Must engage automatically and resist 150N+ force when latched.
• Clamps & brackets: Stainless steel clamps join adjacent panels at corners or angles. Low-profile design maintains the "frameless" look.
• Gate closers: Hydraulic or spring-loaded gate closers ensure the gate shuts within 10 seconds from a 150mm open position (AS1926.1 requirement).

Coastal Locations: For properties within 1km of the beach (Mornington Peninsula, Chelsea, Hampton, Elwood), always specify 316 marine-grade stainless steel hardware to resist salt corrosion. Standard 304 stainless will corrode and stain within 2–3 years in coastal environments.

Installation Overview

Frameless glass pool fencing installation is a precision job requiring licensed installers and compliance with AS1926.1. Here's the typical process:

Step 1: Site Assessment & Measure

Installer visits your property to measure the pool perimeter, assess ground conditions (concrete, paving, decking, or grass), check for slopes or obstacles, and confirm gate locations. Photos and detailed measurements are used to create a compliance-ready layout plan.

Step 2: Council Permit (if required)

Most councils allow pool fencing as "permit-exempt building work" if it complies with AS1926.1. However, if your property is in a heritage overlay (Sorrento, Portsea, parts of Brighton) or the fence is on a front boundary, you may need a planning or building permit. Your installer or a building surveyor can confirm this.

Step 3: Base Preparation

If installing on grass or soil, a concrete footing strip (100–150mm wide × 100mm deep) is poured to provide a stable base for spigots. For existing concrete or paving, spigots are core-drilled directly into the surface.

Step 4: Spigot Installation

Core holes (typically 20–25mm diameter, 100–120mm deep) are drilled at marked positions. Spigots are secured with chemical anchors (epoxy resin) or expansion bolts. Installer checks alignment and height with a laser level to ensure all panels will be plumb and level.

Step 5: Glass Panel Installation

Each 12mm toughened glass panel is carefully lifted into position and slotted into the spigots. Rubber or neoprene gaskets inside the spigot cup cushion the glass and prevent cracking. Panels are clamped together at corners with stainless steel brackets.

Step 6: Gate & Hardware Fitting

Self-closing hinges and magnetic latch are fitted to the gate panel. Gate closer is adjusted to meet the 10-second closing requirement. All hardware is torqued to manufacturer specs and tested for smooth operation.

Step 7: Final Compliance Check & Handover

Installer performs a final compliance check: measures barrier heights, tests gate self-closing and latching, checks all gaps are ≤100mm, and confirms no climbable zones. You receive a compliance certificate and installation documentation for council inspection.

Step 8: Council Inspection (if required)

You book a final pool barrier inspection with your local council. Inspector verifies compliance, checks CPR signage, and issues a certificate of compliance. This is mandatory before your pool can be legally used.

Timeline: Measure to installation typically takes 2–4 weeks (depending on glass lead times and weather). Installation itself is usually completed in 1–2 days for standard residential pools (15–30m perimeter).

Costs & Timeline

Frameless glass pool fencing is a premium product. Costs vary by site conditions, panel sizes, gate requirements, and your location in Melbourne.

Supply & Installation Costs (2025 Melbourne Pricing)

Item	Cost Range
Frameless glass panels (per metre)	$350–$500/m
Coastal/marine-grade hardware (per metre)	+$40–$80/m
Self-closing glass gate (single, 900mm)	$800–$1,200
Concrete footing strip (if no base exists)	$60–$100/m
Compliance certificate & documentation	$150–$300
Typical 20m perimeter pool (4 panels + 1 gate)	$8,500–$12,000

Cost Variables:

• Site access: Difficult access (narrow side paths, multi-level properties) may increase labour costs by 10–20%.
• Ground conditions: Rock, clay, or sloped sites require extra excavation or engineered footings.
• Custom heights: Panels taller than 1,200mm (e.g., 1,500mm for sloped blocks) cost 15–25% more due to larger glass and heavier-duty spigots.
• Frosted or tinted glass: Add $50–$100 per panel vs clear glass.
• Multiple gates: Each additional gate adds $800–$1,200.

Timeline

• Quote & design: 3–5 days
• Glass fabrication: 1–2 weeks (lead times vary by supplier)
• Installation: 1–2 days (standard residential pool)
• Council inspection: 1–3 weeks (book early—councils are often backlogged)

Total project time: 3–6 weeks from quote approval to final compliance certificate.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Frameless glass pool fencing is low-maintenance compared to timber or steel, but it does require regular cleaning to maintain its clarity and appearance—especially in coastal areas where salt spray and water spots accumulate quickly.

Weekly Cleaning (Coastal Properties)

• Hose down: Rinse panels with fresh water to remove salt, chlorine, and dust. Use a soft squeegee to prevent water spots.
• Wipe hardware: Wipe stainless steel spigots, hinges, and latches with a damp microfibre cloth to prevent salt buildup and corrosion.

Monthly Deep Clean

• Glass cleaner: Use a non-abrasive glass cleaner (or DIY: 1 part white vinegar + 3 parts water). Spray, let sit 30 seconds, then wipe with a microfibre cloth or squeegee. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners on coated or tinted glass.
• Stubborn marks: For hard water stains, use a dedicated calcium remover or baking soda paste (gentle abrasive). Rinse thoroughly after.
• Hardware lubrication: Apply silicone spray to hinges and latch mechanisms to ensure smooth self-closing action. Wipe away excess to prevent dust buildup.

Quarterly Inspection

• Check gate operation: Ensure gate closes and latches automatically from any angle. Adjust spring tension if needed.
• Inspect spigots: Look for cracks, rust staining, or loose fittings. Tighten any loose bolts.
• Check glass for chips: Small edge chips can propagate into cracks over time. Report any damage to your installer immediately—toughened glass cannot be repaired and must be replaced.

Coastal Tip: Properties within 1km of the ocean (Mornington, Sorrento, Chelsea, Brighton) should rinse glass panels 2–3 times per week during summer to prevent salt buildup. Salt accelerates corrosion on hardware and leaves stubborn white residue on glass.

What to Avoid

• Abrasive cleaners or steel wool: These scratch the glass surface, making it more prone to staining.
• High-pressure washers: Avoid blasting spigot bases or panel edges—high pressure can damage gaskets or loosen fittings.
• Chlorine pool shock near panels: Rinse panels immediately if pool chemicals splash onto glass or hardware—chlorine accelerates stainless steel corrosion.

Safety Checklist

Use this checklist to verify your frameless glass pool fencing remains compliant and safe year-round:

• ☐ Barrier height ≥1,200mm from ground or any climbable surface within 900mm
• ☐ No climbable objects (furniture, pot plants, storage boxes, etc.) within 900mm of the fence
• ☐ All gaps ≤100mm (under panels, between panels, around gates)
• ☐ Gate self-closes and self-latches automatically from any open position
• ☐ Latch height ≥1,500mm (or ≥1,350mm with safety shield)
• ☐ CPR signage displayed within 3m of gate
• ☐ No DIY modifications (drilling, cutting, or altering panels voids compliance and warranty)
• ☐ Hardware in good condition (no rust, cracks, or loose fittings)
• ☐ Glass panels intact (no chips, cracks, or missing sections)
• ☐ Gate closer functional (gate closes within 10 seconds from 150mm open)

If any item fails this checklist, contact a licensed pool fencing installer immediately. Non-compliant barriers put children at risk and expose you to legal liability.

When to Consider Alternatives

Frameless glass isn't always the best choice. Here are scenarios where you might prefer semi-frameless glass or aluminium slat fencing:

Choose Semi-Frameless Glass If:

• Your site has uneven or sloped ground—aluminium posts provide extra rigidity.
• Budget is a concern—semi-frameless costs 20–30% less than fully frameless.
• You want the glass aesthetic but prefer the added structural support of posts.

Choose Aluminium Slat Fencing If:

• Budget is a primary concern—aluminium costs 40–50% less than frameless glass.
• You need a low-maintenance solution—powder-coated aluminium requires minimal cleaning.
• Your property is extremely windy or exposed—aluminium slats allow wind to pass through, reducing load on posts.
• You're fencing a large perimeter (40m+)—the cost difference becomes significant.
• You prefer a modern, industrial aesthetic over the seamless glass look.

We offer free quotes for all pool fencing types—frameless, semi-frameless, and aluminium—so you can compare options and choose what works best for your property, budget, and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is frameless glass pool fencing safe for kids and pets?

Yes. When installed to AS1926.1 standards, frameless glass fencing is one of the safest options. The 12mm toughened glass is extremely strong (impact-resistant to 50kg+ force), and the self-closing/latching gate prevents unsupervised access. The smooth glass surface offers no footholds for climbing, making it harder for young children to scale than aluminium slat or mesh fencing.

How much does frameless glass pool fencing cost in Melbourne?

Expect to pay $350–$600 per metre for supply and installation, depending on site conditions, hardware grade, and glass finish. A typical 20m perimeter pool (4 panels + 1 gate) costs $8,500–$12,000 fully installed. Coastal properties requiring marine-grade 316 stainless steel hardware will be at the higher end of this range.

Does frameless glass pool fencing require a council permit in Victoria?

Usually not—most councils treat AS1926.1-compliant pool fencing as permit-exempt building work. However, properties in heritage overlays (Sorrento, Portsea, Brighton, parts of Bayside) or with fencing on a front boundary may require a planning or building permit. Always check with your local council or hire a building surveyor before starting work.

How long does frameless glass pool fencing last?

With proper maintenance, frameless glass pool fencing lasts 20–30+ years. The 12mm toughened glass is virtually indestructible under normal use, and marine-grade 316 stainless steel hardware resists corrosion even in coastal environments. Most failures occur due to neglected maintenance (corroded hardware, loose spigots, or damaged gates)—not the glass itself.

Can I install frameless glass pool fencing myself (DIY)?

No. Pool fencing installation in Victoria must be performed by a licensed building practitioner or pool fencing specialist to ensure AS1926.1 compliance. DIY installations are not eligible for council compliance certificates and may void your home insurance if an incident occurs. Incorrect installation (wrong spigot depth, misaligned panels, non-compliant gate hardware) creates serious safety risks.

How often should I clean frameless glass pool fencing?

For coastal properties (within 1km of the beach), rinse panels with fresh water 2–3 times per week to prevent salt buildup. Urban properties can get away with weekly rinsing + monthly deep cleaning. Neglecting cleaning leads to stubborn hard water stains, salt corrosion on hardware, and cloudy glass that's difficult to restore.

What happens if a glass panel breaks?

Toughened glass is designed to shatter into small, blunt fragments (like car windshield glass) if broken, minimizing injury risk. If a panel breaks, cordon off the area immediately and contact your installer for emergency replacement. Most installers carry spare panels and can replace a broken panel within 24–48 hours. The cost is typically $400–$800 per panel (labour + glass), depending on size.

Is frameless glass pool fencing compliant with AS1926.1?

Yes—when installed correctly using 12mm toughened glass, self-closing/latching gates, and hardware that meets the standard's structural and gap requirements. Always hire a licensed installer who provides a compliance certificate documenting barrier heights, gap measurements, and gate operation. This certificate is required for council inspections and insurance claims.

Can I add frameless glass fencing to an existing pool?

Yes. Frameless glass can be retrofitted to existing pools, even if you currently have aluminium, mesh, or timber fencing. The old fence is removed, and new spigots are core-drilled into your existing concrete or paving. The entire process typically takes 1–2 days. If your pool deck is in poor condition (cracked, uneven), you may need repairs before glass installation.

Does frameless glass pool fencing work on sloped blocks?

Yes, but it requires custom-height panels or stepped installation. Installers use laser levels to calculate the slope and adjust panel heights to maintain the 1,200mm minimum barrier height at all points. Sloped installations cost 10–20% more due to the extra engineering and custom glass cutting. For steep slopes (>15° gradient), semi-frameless glass with adjustable posts may be more cost-effective.

Get a Free Quote on Frameless Glass Pool Fencing

Ready to upgrade your pool with frameless glass fencing? We provide free, no-obligation quotes for properties across the Mornington Peninsula and South-East Melbourne—including Mornington, Mount Eliza, Frankston, Hampton, Chelsea, Brighton, Elwood, and surrounding suburbs.

We handle everything: site assessment, compliance design, council documentation, installation, and final inspection. All work is backed by our 5-year workmanship warranty, and we use only marine-grade 316 stainless steel hardware for coastal properties.