Get Rid Of Your Backyard Pool – Reclaim Your Land For Homesteading
Owning a pool often feels like a dream until the reality of maintenance, chemical costs, and constant repairs sets in. You might find that your water feature has become more of a burden than a benefit to your outdoor lifestyle. If you are ready to reclaim that square footage for a thriving garden or a new outdoor workshop, you are in the right place.
This guide will walk you through the practical steps to transform your yard back into a functional, self-sufficient space. We will cover the different removal methods, safety protocols, and how to prepare the ground for its next chapter. By the time you finish reading, you will have a clear roadmap to reclaim your land and move toward a more sustainable way of living.
When you finally decide to get rid of your backyard pool, you open up a world of possibilities for your homestead or outdoor retreat. We will explore everything from heavy machinery needs to soil compaction techniques. Let’s dive into the details of how to turn that concrete basin into a productive part of your property.
Table of Contents
Why Most Homesteaders Choose to Remove Their Pools
For the modern homesteader or outdoor enthusiast, a pool can be a major drain on resources that could be better spent elsewhere. The water usage alone is often staggering, especially in regions prone to drought. By removing the pool, you stop the cycle of chemical dependency and high electricity bills from pump operation.
Beyond the cost, a pool takes up the “prime real estate” of your backyard. This is usually the flattest, most sun-drenched area of your property. If you want to build a greenhouse, install raised beds, or set up a solar array, the pool is likely standing in your way.
Safety is another major driver for this change. If you are transitioning to a lifestyle that involves more guests, pets, or free-ranging livestock, an open pool is a constant liability. Removing it provides peace of mind and simplifies your land management strategy.
The Two Main Methods to get rid of your backyard pool
There are two primary ways to handle this project, and your choice depends on your budget and future plans for the land. The first and most common method is a partial removal, often called a “fill-in.” This involves breaking up the bottom and top edges of the pool and filling the cavity with dirt.
The second method is a full removal. In this scenario, every piece of concrete, steel, and vinyl is hauled away from the property. This is the more expensive route, but it is necessary if you plan to build a heavy structure like a garage or a secondary dwelling on that exact spot.
Most homeowners opt for the partial fill-in because it is faster and more affordable. However, you must disclose a partial fill-in if you ever sell your home. For a dedicated off-grid explorer or gardener, a well-executed fill-in is usually more than enough to support a lush landscape or a small orchard.
Understanding the Partial Fill-In Method
In a partial removal, the crew will remove the “coping” (the top edge) and the walkway around the pool. They then use heavy equipment to punch large holes in the bottom of the pool. These holes are critical because they prevent the area from becoming a subterranean swamp when it rains.
Once the drainage holes are set, the remaining concrete sides are folded into the bottom. The cavity is then filled with a mix of compacted gravel and clean fill dirt. This method is efficient but requires careful attention to how the soil is layered to prevent future sinking.
The Benefits of Full Removal
If you want no trace of the pool to remain, full removal is the way to go. This involves heavy excavators breaking down the entire shell and loading it into dump trucks. It eliminates any concerns about drainage or soil stability for future construction.
While it costs significantly more, it adds the most value back to the land in terms of versatility. You won’t have to worry about underground obstructions if you decide to dig a new well or install a deep-post fence line later on.
How Much Does It Cost to get rid of your backyard pool?
The financial investment for this project varies wildly based on your location and the pool’s size. A partial fill-in typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,000. This usually covers the labor, machinery rental, and the cost of the fill material and topsoil.
A full removal is a different story, often costing between $10,000 and $15,000 or more. The bulk of this cost comes from the labor required to break up all that concrete and the high fees associated with hauling heavy debris to a landfill. Always get at least three quotes from licensed demolition contractors before starting.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of permits. Most municipalities require a permit to get rid of your backyard pool to ensure the drainage is handled correctly. Skipping this step can lead to massive fines and issues when you eventually try to sell the property.
Step-by-Step: The Process of Reclaiming Your Yard
If you are a DIY enthusiast with some experience operating machinery, you might consider tackling part of this yourself. However, most people should hire a professional for the structural demolition phase. Here is the general workflow you can expect during the project.
- Drain the Water: Use a submersible pump to empty the pool completely. Ensure the water is pumped into a legal drainage area, not your neighbor’s yard.
- Disconnect Utilities: A licensed electrician must cap off the power to the pump and lights. If you have a pool heater, a gas technician must safely disconnect the line.
- Demolition: Use a jackhammer or an excavator with a breaker attachment to collapse the sides and punch drainage holes in the floor.
- Backfilling: This is the most important part. You must fill the hole in layers, compacting each layer with a vibratory plate compactor or a heavy roller.
- Topsoil and Seeding: Finish the top 6 to 12 inches with high-quality topsoil. This allows you to plant grass or start your garden immediately.
Proper soil compaction is the difference between a flat, usable yard and a dangerous, muddy pit. If the dirt is just dumped in without being packed down, it will settle over time. This creates a massive depression in your yard that collects water and becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Essential Equipment for a Successful Removal
If you are overseeing the project, you should know what tools are necessary. A skid-steer loader (like a Bobcat) is the workhorse of pool removals. It is small enough to fit into most backyards but powerful enough to move tons of dirt and gravel quickly.
For the demolition phase, a pneumatic jackhammer is essential for breaking up the bond beam and the pool deck. If the pool is made of thick reinforced concrete, the contractor might bring in a mini-excavator with a hydraulic hammer. This makes quick work of even the toughest shells.
Safety gear is non-negotiable during this process. Anyone on the site should wear steel-toed boots, eye protection, and heavy-duty gloves. The dust from breaking concrete can be harmful, so wearing a high-quality respirator or N95 mask is a smart move for everyone involved.
Turning Your Old Pool Space into a Productive Homestead
Once the dust settles and the ground is level, the fun begins. For a self-reliant traveler or homesteader, this newly cleared land is a blank canvas. One of the best uses for an old pool area is a large-scale vegetable garden. The soil is already disturbed, making it easy to install irrigation lines.
If you are interested in permaculture, consider planting a fruit orchard. The deep soil of a filled pool can support the root systems of apple, peach, or cherry trees. Just ensure you used “clean fill” during the process so no contaminants leach into your food supply.
Another great option is building a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. Since the area was likely already the focal point of your yard, it makes sense to keep it as a gathering place. You can use the money you save on pool chemicals to buy high-quality outdoor gear and cooking equipment.
Creating a Rainwater Harvesting Hub
Before you completely fill the hole, some homesteaders choose to install a cistern system. By placing large storage tanks in the pool cavity before backfilling, you can create a massive underground water reservoir. This is an incredible way to boost your self-sufficiency.
This harvested water can be used to irrigate your garden or provide a backup supply for your livestock. It’s a brilliant way to take a space that used to waste water and turn it into a tool for water conservation.
Setting Up a Workshop or Tiny Home
If you performed a full removal and properly compacted the soil, the site could host a new structure. A prepper pantry, a tool shed, or even a small guest cabin for fellow travelers can be built on the site. This adds massive functional value to your property that a pool never could.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The biggest mistake people make when they get rid of your backyard pool is neglecting the drainage. If you don’t break up the bottom enough, the pool will act like a giant underground bowl. Every time it rains, the soil will turn into a liquefied mess that can take weeks to dry out.
Another common error is using “dirty fill.” This is dirt that contains large rocks, pieces of asphalt, or organic debris like tree stumps. As the organic matter rots, it creates voids in the soil, leading to sinkholes. Always insist on clean, screened fill dirt for the bulk of the project.
Lastly, don’t rush the compaction. It is tempting to dump all the dirt in at once to get the job done. However, you must fill and compact in “lifts” of about 6 to 10 inches at a time. This ensures the ground is stable enough to walk on, drive on, or build on in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Removal
Will removing my pool decrease my home value?
In many cases, it can actually increase the pool of potential buyers. While some families want a pool, many others see it as a liability and a maintenance nightmare. A clean, usable backyard is often more attractive to the average buyer than an aging pool.
How long does the removal process take?
A professional crew can usually get rid of your backyard pool in about 3 to 5 days. This includes the demolition, the hauling of debris, and the backfilling process. DIY projects will naturally take much longer, especially if you are renting equipment by the day.
Can I build a deck over my filled-in pool?
Yes, but you must ensure the ground is perfectly compacted. If you chose a partial removal, you should place the footings for your deck outside the old pool walls to ensure they are resting on undisturbed virgin soil. This prevents the deck from shifting as the fill dirt settles.
What is the best time of year to remove a pool?
The best time is during the dry season. If the ground is saturated with rain, the heavy machinery will tear up your entire yard and create a muddy disaster. Early autumn or late spring are usually the ideal windows for this kind of heavy earthwork.
Final Thoughts on Reclaiming Your Outdoor Freedom
Deciding to get rid of your backyard pool is a major step toward a more intentional and productive lifestyle. It frees up your time, saves you thousands of dollars in the long run, and gives you the space to grow your own food or build the ultimate outdoor retreat. While the process requires some heavy lifting and careful planning, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Remember to prioritize safety and proper drainage above all else. Whether you do it yourself or hire a pro, doing the job right the first time ensures your yard remains a stable and beautiful part of your home for decades to come. Now is the time to take back your land and start your next great outdoor adventure right in your own backyard.
Stay safe and stay productive!
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