A by-law you might not have known you were infringing
JMPD shares on how allowing your swimming pool backwash to stream onto public areas is an infringement that comes with a fine
Did you know that it is a by-law infringement to allow your pool’s backwash to stream out of your property and onto the pavement or public areas?
Superintendent for the JMPD, Xolani Fihla, said this by-law had been in effect for a considerable time. “I believe some by-laws are lesser known than others for several reasons,” he said. “In the case of swimming pool backwash, it’s possible that because not every household has a swimming pool, this particular portion of the water by-laws might not be widely known or discussed compared to more common by-laws that affect all residents,” he explained, adding that awareness campaigns might focus on by-laws with a broader impact or those that are more frequently violated.
Read more: 12 Home swimming pool safety advice for all parents
Swimming pool backwash does, however, have negative environmental impacts primarily due to the chemicals and acids used to clean and maintain the pool water. These can include chlorine, algaecides, and pH balancers.
The preferred method for disposing of swimming pool backwash is to contain it within your property. “This typically means directing the backwash water to a permeable area within your garden. The key is to ensure it does not flow onto public property,” said Fihla.
There are fines associated with such infringements.
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