Above Ground Pool Removal: Cost, Process & Timeline

Above ground pools have a lifespan of 10-15 years, and when they start leaking, rusting, or just sitting unused, it is time for them to go. Removing an above ground pool is one of the most straightforward outdoor demolition jobs — no heavy excavation equipment needed, no permits in most cases, and the entire project is usually done in half a day. In Middlesex County, above ground pool removal costs $500 to $2,000 depending on pool size and complexity. McDumpsters handles the entire process from draining to hauling.

Above Ground Pool Removal Cost

| Pool Size | Cost Range | Timeline |

|-----------|------------|----------|

| Small round (12-15 ft) | $500 - $800 | 2-3 hours |

| Medium round (18-21 ft) | $800 - $1,200 | 3-4 hours |

| Large round (24-27+ ft) | $1,200 - $1,600 | 4-5 hours |

| Oval (15x30 or larger) | $1,400 - $2,000 | 4-6 hours |

Add-ons:

• Deck or platform removal: $300 - $1,000 depending on size
• Concrete pad removal: $200 - $500
• Sand base removal and grading: $200 - $400

How Above Ground Pool Removal Works

Step 1: Drain the Pool

The pool must be fully drained before removal. Where the water goes matters:

• Municipal sewer: Check local regulations — some towns allow pool water into storm drains, others do not
• Yard drainage: Chlorinated water can damage grass and plants — let chlorine dissipate for 48 hours before draining onto lawn
• Pump out: A submersible pump drains most pools in 2-4 hours

Step 2: Disconnect Equipment

Remove or disconnect:

• Filter system and pump
• Hoses and plumbing connections
• Electrical connections (have an electrician disconnect hardwired systems)
• Heaters, salt systems, or other equipment

Step 3: Dismantle the Structure

Our crew dismantles the pool in sections:

• Liner is cut and rolled for disposal
• Metal or resin frame is disassembled
• Wall panels are removed and cut for transport
• Uprights, top rails, and hardware are separated

Step 4: Haul Everything Away

All materials — liner, frame, walls, hardware, and equipment — are loaded onto our truck and hauled to the appropriate facilities. Metal components are recycled as scrap.

Step 5: Grade the Site

The area under the pool typically has a sand base that has settled unevenly. We can remove the sand base and rough-grade the area, or leave it for your landscaper to finish.

Do You Need a Permit?

In most Middlesex County towns, no permit is required for above ground pool removal since above ground pools are not permanent structures. If the pool has an attached deck or electrical service, check with your town building department.

What About the Yard Underneath?

After years under a pool, the yard will need attention:

• Sand base: Remove or spread and grade
• Dead grass: The area will be bare — plan for topsoil and seeding
• Settled ground: The weight of the pool may have compressed the soil — rototilling helps
• Drainage: Ensure water drains away from the house, not toward it

Ready to Remove Your Pool?

Call McDumpsters at (978) 375-2272 for a free above ground pool removal quote. We handle everything from draining to hauling. Same-day service available across Billerica, Chelmsford, Lowell, Tewksbury, and all of Middlesex County.