In brief it is worth noting that:

• Approved security systems will be mandatory for ALL owners of outdoor in-ground pools in France as from 1st Jan 2006 regardless of whether the pool is for private or public use.
• Pools at rented properties are required to comply as of May 2004.
• If you do not comply with the stated standards set out in the law you can be fined € 45,000.
• The law requires that a standardised security system (dispositif de sécurité normalisé) be installed for all pools and this seems to include pool fences/safety barriers, pool covers and possibly pool alarms where the equipment and system meet with the regulations AFNOR publication NF P60-306. However, the CSC (Commission de Sécurité des Consommateurs) recommends fences and other barriers as the primary security system, with all others (alarms etc) to be viewed only as supplementary to these.
• There is an NF official mark of conformity and when purchasing or agreeing the installation of pool security you should request models bearing this mark. Your system supplier or pool installer should be able to help with full details of this.
• Your insurance company or letting agent may have very specific definitions about which type and/or make of security system is acceptable within their own terms - we advise you to check with them specifically.
• Pool safety systems should not be viewed as a replacement for the vigilance of parents and guardians in taking responsibility for the well being of children using swimming pools.

NB: The points above are intended as basic guidelines and not as a definitive interpretation of the French law regarding swimming pool security measures.