Can I Fill In My Swimming Pool Without A Permit?

Having a swimming pool at home can be desirable, but there may come a time when you wish to remove your pool. In some cases, homeowners wish to save the time and money involved in maintaining a pool and are concerned about the potential hazards and liabilities associated with pool ownership.

In other cases, a pool is filled in or removed to create more space in the yard for other activities or landscaping features. Removing a pool can also increase the number of potential buyers when you are selling your home.

What Is The Procedure For Filling In A Pool?

Filling in a pool is the most affordable option when it comes to inground pool removal. It is also a faster process than other options. It entails draining the pool completely and punching holes in the bottom of it.

Then, the top layer of the pool is demolished anywhere from 18 to 36 inches. Rubble is placed in the bottom of the pool, and then it is filled in with additional dirt and topsoil.

Finally, the soil is compacted, and the yard can be used as desired. The entire process can be completed in less than a week in many cases.

Can You Fill In A Pool Without A Permit?

A permit is often required to fill in a pool, but this varies by location. If you are considering filling in your pool, find out whether your local municipality requires one. The price of a permit varies depending on the location. In some places, these permits are free; in others, they may cost several hundred dollars. Nevertheless, these permit costs usually only amount to a fraction of the cost of the overall pool removal job.

Although it may be tempting to skip this step, there are many good reasons to make the effort required to get the permit. For example, it could impact the value of your property when it is time to sell as buyers might view as a liability any discrepancy between what the county records say and the current status of the pool on the property. In some cases, there might also be tax benefits if removing the pool reduces the value of the home, so it is important to have an official record of the pool’s removal.

In addition, some local governments have rules dictating how a pool must be removed. In some areas, there are codes or zoning ordinances that specify the pools must be removed completely rather than simply being filled in. In areas where a partial pool removal is permitted, there might be specific protocols outlining how the pool must be filled in.

Why Should I Hire A Contractor To Fill In My Pool?

Although it is technically possible for a homeowner to fill in their own pool, there are several reasons that this is a job that is best left to the professionals. Outlined below are the primary reasons why you should consider hiring a pool removal contractor to get the job done right.

Prevent Future Problems

Whether a permit is needed or not, this is a serious job that could cause problems in your yard in the future. For example, if the fill-in is not carried out properly, there could be swelling, sinkage or a lack of proper seepage.

In addition, many cities consider the area where a pool was once placed to be non-buildable. This means that no dwellings or additions to the home can be built over the space. Although it is still suitable for trees, landscaping, sheds and concrete, you will want to ensure a solid base for these projects.

Protect Your Home During the Removal Process

Hiring an experienced pool removal contractor is the best way to protect your property and its value. Heavy equipment is needed to demolish pools, and this can damage your driveway, landscaping, sewer connections or septic tanks if it is not used with caution.

In addition, qualified pool removal contractors will consider the best way to gain access to the pool without disrupting the surrounding areas. They can also ensure that the area is backfilled properly.

Choosing A Pool Removal Contractor

Be sure to choose a contractor who is licensed and insured to carry out this type of work. It is a good idea to get several estimates and opinions about the best approach to your particular pool.

Ensure the estimates you receive are in writing and include the project’s timeline, payment schedule, and who will be responsible for applying and paying for any necessary pool removal permits.

It should also specify what the contractor will do to protect your property from being damaged during the process and what type of equipment will be used for the job.

How Much Does It Cost To Fill In A Pool?

There are several factors that influence the cost of a pool removal. These include:

• The size of the pool
• The accessibility of the pool area
• The method used to remove the pool
• The type of pool
• The contractor in charge of the job

A basic medium pool with relatively easy access will cost several thousand dollars less to remove than a large pool surrounded by a big deck that is difficult to access.

What Is A Complete Pool Removal?

With a complete pool removal, the pool is drained, and all of the materials used to build it are hauled away, including the concrete, liner and fiberglass. The area where the pool stood will be filled with soil or gravel and compacted. Because no concrete will be buried in the old pool, this reduces the chances of sinkage or seepage.

Like a pool fill-in, the area where a pool has been completely removed is considered non buildable. This is a more expensive option then getting a partial pool removal.

Get In Touch With The Pool Removal Professionals

If you would like to safely and efficiently remove an unwanted swimming pool, get in touch with the pool removal experts at Dirt Connections. They are experienced in filling in and demolishing all types of swimming pools and can leave your yard in optimum condition for whatever you have planned for the space in the future.