Key Takeaways
The national industry baseline for above-ground pool removal is $800 to $3,000, depending on pool size, material, and whether a deck or concrete pad needs to come out too. A small round pool with no deck sits at the lower end; attached decking or a concrete pad pushes it higher. In-ground pool demolition is a significantly larger and costlier project that requires excavation equipment and permits.
The above-ground pool seemed like a great investment during that one hot Oregon summer. Now the liner is cracked, the pump died two seasons ago, and the whole thing has become a mosquito breeding ground. It is time for it to go.
Above-ground pool removal is a manageable project, but it is bigger than most homeowners expect. The pool itself is just the beginning -- you also have the liner, pump and filter equipment, plumbing, and potentially a deck to deal with. Let us walk through the process and the costs.
Above-Ground Pool Removal Cost
Industry Baseline Range
| Service | Industry baseline range |
|---|---|
| Above-ground pool removal | $800 to $3,000 |
Source: HomeGuide, "Above Ground Pool Removal Cost" national cost guide.
These are industry baseline ranges for planning only and may not reflect Otesse's price. Otesse pricing is calculated for your specific home and ZIP code, so enter your ZIP in the price box on this page for your instant price.
Current Market Reality
Pool size is the biggest driver, followed by what sits around the pool. A small round pool on a sand base with clear truck access is the simplest job; an oval pool with an attached wood deck or a concrete pad is a much bigger one. Pump, filter, and heater removal is usually part of the job.
| What moves the price | Pushes it up | Keeps it lower |
|---|---|---|
| Pool size | Large round or oval (24-33 ft) | Small round (12-15 ft) |
| Attached structures | Wood deck or concrete pad | Freestanding pool on sand |
| Water | Crew drains the pool | Pool already drained and dechlorinated |
| Frame condition | Corroded bolts, collapsed walls | Intact frame that unbolts cleanly |
| Access | No truck access, tight side yard | Open access close to the street |
Every home is different. For a price built on your own home rather than a national range, enter your ZIP in the price box on this page for your instant price.
In-Ground Pool Demolition (Brief Overview)
This article focuses on above-ground pools, but if you have an in-ground pool, here is a brief overview:
- Partial demolition (fill-in) -- The walls are broken down a few feet, the bottom is punctured for drainage, and the hole is filled with gravel and dirt. The less expensive in-ground option.
- Full demolition (complete removal) -- The entire pool structure is excavated and removed. Costs considerably more than a fill-in.
- Permits required -- In-ground pool demolition requires permits in most Oregon jurisdictions.
- Disclosure -- If you sell the property, you must disclose the former pool location.
In-ground pool demolition is an excavation project, not a junk removal job. It requires heavy equipment and typically takes 3 to 7 days.
Steps for Above-Ground Pool Removal
Step 1: Drain the Pool
Before any disassembly can begin, the pool needs to be emptied.
- Use a submersible pump -- A budget utility pump from any hardware store drains most pools in 2 to 6 hours depending on size.
- Where to drain -- Oregon allows draining pool water onto your property or into the storm drain system, provided the water has been dechlorinated. Stop adding chlorine at least a week before draining, or use a dechlorination product.
- Do NOT drain into a septic system -- The volume of water can overwhelm a residential septic system.
- Time it right -- Drain on a day when you or the removal crew will be disassembling. An empty above-ground pool is structurally unstable and can collapse.
Step 2: Remove the Liner
The vinyl liner is the first component to come out after draining. It is typically cut into manageable sections with a utility knife and rolled up for disposal. Liners are landfill-bound -- there is no recycling infrastructure for PVC pool liners in Oregon.
Step 3: Disassemble the Frame
Above-ground pool frames are made of:
- Steel -- The most common frame material. Steel pools disassemble by removing bolts, pins, and connectors. The steel is valuable scrap metal.
- Aluminum -- Lighter and easier to handle. Also recyclable as scrap.
- Resin / plastic -- Some newer pools use resin components. These are lighter but not recyclable in most cases.
Disassembly takes 2 to 6 hours depending on pool size and frame condition. Corroded bolts and weathered components can slow the process.
Step 4: Remove Equipment
Pool equipment includes the pump, filter, heater (if applicable), and plumbing. These components are typically recycled as scrap metal. If the equipment is still functional, it may have resale value.
Step 5: Address the Base
What is under the pool matters:
- Sand base -- Can be leveled and left in place, or removed if you want to restore the area to its original condition.
- Concrete pad -- Requires breaking up and hauling away. See our guide on concrete removal and disposal for that process.
- Compacted earth -- May need grading and reseeding to restore the yard.
Step 6: Remove Decking (If Applicable)
If your pool has an attached deck, that is a separate demolition and removal job. Tearing down and hauling a wood deck adds to the cost, depending on size.
DIY vs Professional Pool Removal
DIY Costs (medium above-ground pool):
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Submersible pump (if you don't own one) | Budget purchase |
| Tools (wrenches, utility knife, saw) | Often already owned |
| Dumpster rental (20-yard) | The largest DIY expense |
| Your time (8-16 hours) | A full weekend |
| Total DIY | Dumpster plus supplies, plus your labor |
Professional Removal:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Full service removal | See the baseline range above |
| Your time | 15 minutes to walk the crew through the job |
| Total professional | One price covering labor, hauling, and disposal |
Whatever DIY saves on above-ground pool removal, the job is physically demanding. Pool frames have sharp edges, heavy components, and corroded hardware that make disassembly frustrating and potentially dangerous. Most homeowners find professional removal well worth the cost.
What Happens to Pool Materials
A responsible removal company separates pool components:
- Steel and aluminum framing -- Recycled at scrap metal facilities. This is the most valuable component.
- Vinyl liner -- Landfilled. PVC recycling is very limited.
- Pump and equipment -- Scrap metal recycling. Copper wiring and motor components have value.
- Concrete pad -- Crushed and recycled as aggregate if removed.
- Wood decking -- Recycled as clean wood waste or disposed of at a transfer station.
A responsible crew sorts and recycles every pool component it can, keeping the metal components out of the landfill. Learn more about our junk removal services.
Permits and Regulations
Above-ground pool removal: Generally does not require a permit in Oregon. The structure is temporary and sits on top of the ground.
In-ground pool demolition: Requires a demolition permit in most Oregon jurisdictions. Check with your local building department.
Electrical disconnect: If your pool has a dedicated electrical circuit (most do for the pump), have a licensed electrician disconnect and cap the wiring before removal begins.
Water discharge: Oregon DEQ allows pool water discharge to storm drains or ground as long as the water is dechlorinated. Pools treated with salt chlorination systems should be tested before draining -- high-salinity water can damage landscaping.
FAQ
How long does above-ground pool removal take?
A professional crew typically completes the job in 3 to 6 hours. Larger pools with decking may take a full day. Doing it yourself takes longer: draining alone takes 2 to 6 hours, disassembly takes another 2 to 6, and a medium pool is typically a full weekend of work.
Can I leave the sand base after pool removal?
Yes. Many homeowners leave the sand in place and seed grass over it. The sand actually improves drainage in Oregon's clay-heavy soils. If you would rather restore the area to its original condition, the sand can be removed instead, and compacted earth may need grading and reseeding.
What about the hole where the pool sat?
Above-ground pools do not leave a hole, but they do leave a compacted, often bare area. You will need to loosen the soil, add topsoil, and reseed or sod to restore the yard.
Is above-ground pool removal worth it for property value?
Generally yes. A neglected above-ground pool is a liability and an eyesore. Removing it cleans up the yard and eliminates maintenance costs. Above-ground pools rarely add to property value in Oregon.
Can I sell my above-ground pool?
If the pool is in good condition (intact liner, working pump, no rust), you may be able to sell it, with the price depending on size and brand. However, the buyer is responsible for disassembly and transport, which limits your market significantly.
Get Your Pool Removed
Ready to reclaim your backyard? Otesse handles above-ground pool removal. Enter your ZIP in the price box to see which services are available at your address. Every pool is different, so the real number depends on size, condition, and what you want removed.
See our junk removal cost guide for general pricing information.
Get a quote or call us at 541-844-2585 and we will walk you through it.
