Removing a backyard pool might seem like a permanent fix for high maintenance, insurance costs, or disuse—but filling in a pool can come with its own problems. Whether you’ve already filled in a pool or are considering it, understanding what could go wrong afterward can save you thousands in repairs and frustration.
What Does “Filling In a Pool” Really Mean?
There are two types of pool removal: **partial fill-in** and **full removal**.
- Partial removal: The top few feet of the pool walls are demolished, and the rest is filled in with dirt or gravel.
- Full removal: The entire pool structure is removed and the cavity is backfilled and compacted.
Partial removal is cheaper and faster—but more prone to long-term issues.
1. Soil Settlement and Sinking Ground
Why does the ground sink?
Improperly compacted soil or use of unsuitable fill material can lead to settling. This creates dips, soft spots, or even sinkholes over time.
Direct Answer: Filled-in pools often sink because the soil wasn’t properly compacted, causing uneven ground or surface collapse.
Fix it:
- Use a plate compactor to compress soil in layers during backfilling.
- Install a soil stabilization grid if planning to build or landscape over the area.
- Add topsoil and regrade if minor settling occurs after rain or snow.
Recommended Product:
GroundGrid Stabilization Panel – Prevents shifting soil and sinking in filled-in areas. Ideal for patios, sod, or gravel driveways over a former pool.
2. Poor Drainage or Water Pooling
Where does the water go?
Pools are designed to hold water—but not in the ground. If drainage wasn’t planned properly, water can collect in the old pool cavity, causing soggy ground and basement seepage.
Direct Answer: Filled-in pools collect water if drainage isn’t built in, leading to pooling, mud, and potential foundation problems.
Solutions:
- Install a French drain or perforated pipe system beneath the fill material.
- Grade the surface to slope away from buildings and structures.
- Add gravel or crushed rock layers to improve subsurface drainage.
Recommended Product:
NDS EZ-Drain French Drain System – Lightweight and easy to install. Keeps backfilled areas dry by redirecting groundwater and rain runoff.
3. Foundation and Structural Risks
Can you build over a filled-in pool?
Technically yes—but only if it’s been properly filled and compacted. Many people make the mistake of building patios, sheds, or even room additions over unstable fill.
Direct Answer: Building over a poorly filled pool can result in cracking, shifting, or sinking of structures due to unstable ground.
Prevent it:
- Get a soil compaction test before building anything permanent.
- Choose full removal over partial fill-in if planning construction.
- Use engineered fill and structural reinforcement if required by code.
Recommended Product:
Soil Test Pro DIY Soil Compaction Test Kit – Helps evaluate soil strength and readiness for landscaping or structural construction over backfilled ground.
4. Unexpected Landscaping Failures
Why won’t grass grow?
The mix of gravel, debris, and compacted soil used to fill a pool is often nutrient-poor and not ideal for plant life.
Direct Answer: Poor-quality fill material in a filled-in pool prevents grass, trees, and plants from thriving.
Solutions:
- Remove top layers of fill and replace with 6–12 inches of nutrient-rich topsoil.
- Use a soil enhancer or compost blend to restore balance.
- Use turf that tolerates low-nutrient conditions if full soil replacement isn’t an option.
Recommended Product:
Miracle-Gro Garden Soil for All Purpose – Enriches backfilled soil for sod, shrubs, or gardens planted where a pool used to be.
5. Drainage Pipes or Utilities Left Behind
Are the old pipes a problem?
If pipes, skimmers, or electrical lines weren’t removed or capped off during the fill-in, they can collapse, corrode, or interfere with future use of the space.
Direct Answer: Old pool plumbing left behind can collapse, create underground voids, or leak over time.
How to fix it:
- Cap and seal all plumbing lines during demolition.
- Remove electrical wiring and conduit that’s no longer in use.
- Use ground-penetrating radar (GPR) if you suspect hidden lines remain.
Recommended Product:
Oatey PVC Pipe Test Plug – Securely seals off unused pipes to prevent soil intrusion and water infiltration during backfill.
6. Pest Infestation
Why are rodents showing up?
Loose soil and hidden cavities in a poorly filled pool can attract rodents, snakes, and insects looking for shelter.
Direct Answer: Pests nest in filled-in pools due to hollow spaces, stagnant water, and undisturbed soil layers.
How to prevent it:
- Compact the soil layer by layer to eliminate voids.
- Use pest deterrent granules or traps near the filled-in area.
- Inspect the area seasonally for signs of tunneling or burrows.
Recommended Product:
Victor Mole and Gopher Repellent Granules – Repels burrowing pests from newly filled-in ground with natural castor oil formula.
7. Legal or Permit Issues
Can filling a pool cause property issues?
Yes. If the work wasn’t permitted or documented, it can complicate resale or insurance coverage.
Direct Answer: Unpermitted or undocumented pool fill-ins can cause title issues, fines, or insurance disputes.
What to do:
- Check with your local building department before starting a pool removal project.
- File a final inspection or demolition certificate to update records.
- Disclose the filled-in pool during home sales and get a land use survey if required.
Recommended Product:
Homeowner Permit Checklist Template – A handy checklist to ensure your pool removal and fill-in project is up to code and documented.
Should You Fill in Your Pool?
That depends on your goals and how often you use the pool. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower maintenance costs | Risk of soil settling |
| Increases usable yard space | Poor drainage if done wrong |
| Reduces insurance premiums | May affect resale value |
| No more pool cleaning or repairs | Cannot be easily reversed |
Conclusion: Don’t Rush to Fill It In
Filling in a swimming pool can be a great solution—but only when done right. From drainage and soil settlement to utility conflicts and resale issues, a sloppy fill-in job can cause long-term headaches. Whether you’re repurposing your yard or prepping for construction, it’s worth investing in proper tools, materials, and inspections.
Planning to remove your pool? Follow the best practices and product recommendations above to turn that empty hole into safe, solid, and usable space that adds value—not problems—to your property.