What to Expect During Pool Removal in Melbourne

All Over Pool Removals • August 8, 2025

Backyard swimming pools in Melbourne can be a luxury—until they become an unwanted liability. Whether it’s the endless maintenance, rising costs, or a desire for more usable space, many Melbourne homeowners eventually decide it’s time to part ways with their pool. Removing a pool isn’t as straightforward as draining and filling in the hole—it involves careful planning, legal compliance, and the right professionals to get the job done properly.


In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of professional pool removal in Melbourne, from the initial consultation to the final landscaping. 


Two-panel Image Showing A Pool Demolition And Subsequent Lawn

Understanding the Reasons Behind Pool Removal

A pool can lose its appeal for several reasons. As lifestyle preferences change or maintenance becomes too demanding, many property owners begin to see their pool as more of a burden than a benefit. This shift in priorities often motivates removal.

Some of the most common reasons for removing a swimming pool include:


  • High maintenance and repair costs associated with ageing filtration systems or cracked surfaces
  • Increased liability risks for families with children or elderly residents
  • Reduced usable space, limiting backyard functionality
  • Property resale preparation, where prospective buyers may prefer a blank canvas
  • Environmental concerns, such as water wastage or chemical use


The goal is often to create a more practical outdoor environment that suits evolving needs.


What Happens During Your First On-Site Inspection

Your journey toward pool removal begins with an on-site inspection by a licensed contractor. This visit allows professionals to assess the feasibility of the project and tailor a plan to your site’s needs.

During the site inspection, expect the contractor to:


  • Examine the pool type (concrete, fibreglass, vinyl-lined) and size
  • Assess site access, especially for excavation machinery and trucks
  • Review nearby structures, trees, or utilities that could complicate removal
  • Discuss your goals for the space post-removal
  • Identify service connections that must be safely disconnected


By the end of the inspection, you’ll receive a quote outlining the project scope, timelines, and removal method.

Choosing Between Full & Partial Pool Removal

Not all pool removals involve total demolition. Depending on your budget, plans, and soil stability requirements, you may choose between a full or partial removal.

Here’s a comparison to help understand each method:


Partial Pool Removal:

  • Removes the top section of the pool shell
  • Fills in the base with compacted fill
  • More affordable and quicker
  • May restrict future construction on the site

Full Pool Removal:

  • Removes the entire pool structure, including the base and walls
  • Provides a stable ground suitable for construction
  • More labour-intensive and costly
  • Preferred if planning future development


A professional will advise which approach aligns best with your property plans and council regulations.


In Melbourne, pool removal often requires interaction with local council authorities. Obtaining the right permits is not just a formality—it’s essential for ensuring the work is legal, safe, and compliant.

A licensed contractor typically manages this on your behalf, including:



  • Applying for demolition permits where required
  • Conducting Dial Before You Dig checks to locate underground services
  • Organising soil compaction reports, essential for future construction
  • Managing waste disposal in line with EPA guidelines


Permits protect you from legal issues and ensure the property remains safe and build-ready.


Preparing Your Backyard for Pool Removal

Before excavation begins, you’ll need to ensure the site is ready. Preparation makes the worksite safer and more efficient for contractors.

To prepare your property:


  • Clear the surrounding area of furniture, plants, and portable structures
  • Remove fence panels or gates to allow machine access if needed
  • Secure pets and children away from the work zone
  • Provide driveway or side gate access for heavy equipment
  • Notify neighbours about upcoming noise and activity


Contractors will typically install temporary fencing and signage as part of their safety protocols.


The Pool Removal Timeline: What to Expect Day by Day

Each removal project is unique, but most follow a predictable timeline based on the pool type and removal method. Weather and site access may influence duration, but here’s a general breakdown:



Site setup and disconnection

  • Fencing and machinery are set up
  • Water, power, and gas lines are capped or disconnected

Pool demolition

  • Excavators break apart the pool shell
  • Concrete and steel reinforcement are separated for disposal

Debris removal

  • Materials are loaded and transported to licensed recycling or waste centres

Backfilling and soil compaction

  • Crushed rock and soil are compacted in layers
  • Special machinery ensures structural stability for future landscaping

Final grading

  • Soil is levelled, topsoil added, and the site is left tidy


While timelines can vary, experienced contractors ensure the process is seamless and stress-free.


Post-Removal Landscaping & Site Restoration Options

With your pool gone, it’s time to envision what comes next. Whether you’re reclaiming the yard for leisure or planning a future build, proper landscaping ensures your investment in removal pays off.

Here are some popular post-removal options:



  • Lay new turf for an expanded lawn area
  • Install garden beds or a vegetable patch
  • Build a deck or pergola for outdoor entertaining
  • Create a low-maintenance gravel courtyard
  • Plan a future dwelling, granny flat or studio


Contractors may also offer basic landscaping services or work with your landscaper to ensure a smooth transition from demolition to design.


Why You Should Hire a Licensed Pool Removal Specialist

While treating pool removal as a simple excavation job may be tempting, the reality is far more complex. An experienced, licensed contractor ensures your removal is legal, safe, and suited to your plans.

Working with professionals guarantees:


  • Safe disconnection of services, including electricity and plumbing
  • Efficient demolition, using the right tools and machinery
  • Proper waste disposal, following environmental regulations
  • Correct backfilling and compaction, essential for future builds
  • Permits and paperwork, managed on your behalf


Cutting corners during removal can lead to uneven ground, soil collapse, or problems with property resale or development approvals. Hiring a trusted specialist protects both your property and your long-term plans.


Looking for Pool Removal Near You? We’re Ready to Help

At All Over Pool Removals, we’re here to help you confidently reclaim your outdoor space. We provide expert pool removal in Melbourne, handling everything from demolition and backfilling to permits and clean-up. Whether you're preparing for sale, simplifying your maintenance, or planning new landscaping, our experienced team ensures the job is done properly—every time.

Let's help you make the most of your property again. Contact us today!


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