Is my yard big enough for a swimming pool?
It depends on more than the pool itself. You also need room to dig around it, space for the equipment pad, a way in for excavation equipment, and a site that meets your local rules.
Before you measure, plan for everything that needs space during the build and after it, not just the water.
Check local rules and obstructions first
- Pool codes vary from one county to another. Check your local requirements for lot lines, fencing, drainage, sewer, power lines, and electrical before you choose a site.
- Look for anything in the way: underground wires, gas lines, septic tanks, dry wells, plumbing, trees, and overhead power lines.
- Have underground utilities located before excavation begins. Utility companies will usually locate them at no charge.
What needs space
| What needs space | What to plan for |
|---|---|
| The pool | The shape and size you choose. Your dig specification drawing (dig spec) shows the exact dimensions. |
| Over dig | About 2 feet of working space around the entire perimeter while the walls and braces go in, and more where you have steps or lounges. |
| Equipment pad | A concrete slab, usually 3' x 4', or 3' x 7' with a heater. Keep the filter within 20 feet of the pool and no more than 6 inches above or below pool grade. |
| Excavation access | A route for the excavation equipment to reach the site, and a plan for where the excess dirt goes. |
| Decking and walkways | A deck around the pool and paths to reach it. |
Stake it out before you order
Make a rough layout of where you think the pool should go, then stake out the approximate positions of your decking and walkways. Moving the pool a few feet one way or the other can make excavation, dirt removal, and concrete placement easier. Our Questions to Answer Before Installing an Inground Pool article covers choosing the site in more detail, and How to Set Up Your Pool Layout explains how the final layout is marked.
Options for smaller or sloped yards
- Plunge inground pool kits are designed for compact spaces and smaller lots, and focus on cooling off and relaxing rather than swimming laps.
- Round inground pool kits are most commonly used as a plunge or wading pool.
- Semi-inground pool kits are partially installed above grade and can suit sloped yards.
Shape matters too. Choosing a shape comes down to personal preference and how much room you have, so browse our pool kits by shape. If a standard size will not fit, Royal Swimming Pools can quote a custom shape and size from a drawing of what you want.
Planning for a diving board?
The smallest rectangle pool that meets the required safety standards for a diving board is 16' x 32'. Other shapes may need to be larger; freeform pools in particular can need more room than a rectangle.
More on choosing a pool
Still need help?
Didn't find the answer you were looking for? You can always contact us at support@royalswimmingpools.com or choose the category below to see our most frequently asked questions for that topic: