Pool Demolition Cost in Massachusetts: Inground & Above Ground Removal

Removing a swimming pool is one of the biggest demolition projects a Massachusetts homeowner can take on. Whether you have an aging inground pool that costs more to maintain than it is worth or an above ground pool that has seen better days, pool demolition eliminates ongoing maintenance costs, reduces liability, and frees up significant yard space. In Massachusetts, inground pool removal costs $5,000 to $15,000 depending on size and method, while above ground pool removal runs $500 to $2,000. McDumpsters handles above ground pool demolition and removal across Middlesex County with full debris hauling included.

Inground Pool Demolition Cost

| Method | Cost Range | What It Involves |

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

| Partial removal (fill-in) | $5,000 - $10,000 | Punch holes in bottom, collapse walls 18-36 inches, fill with clean gravel and topsoil |

| Full removal | $10,000 - $15,000+ | Remove entire pool structure, backfill with compacted clean fill, grade to match yard |

Partial Removal (Most Common)

The most popular and cost-effective option. The contractor:

• Drains the pool and disconnects all plumbing and electrical
• Punches holes in the bottom for drainage
• Breaks and collapses the upper walls 18-36 inches below grade
• Fills with clean gravel and topsoil
• Grades and seeds the surface

Important: Partial removal must be disclosed when selling the property. Future buyers need to know a filled pool exists underground, as it affects soil stability and drainage.

Full Removal

The entire pool structure — walls, floor, decking, and plumbing — is excavated and removed. The hole is backfilled with compacted clean fill and graded to match the surrounding yard. This is the better option if you plan to build on the site or want no future complications.

Above Ground Pool Removal Cost

| Pool Size | Cost Range |

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

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

| Medium (18-24 ft round) | $800 - $1,200 |

| Large (27+ ft round or oval) | $1,200 - $2,000 |

Above ground pool removal includes dismantling the frame, liner, and decking, loading all materials onto trucks, and hauling everything away. The area underneath typically needs leveling and may need topsoil and seed.

Do You Need a Permit?

Most Massachusetts towns require a demolition permit for inground pool removal. Above ground pools typically do not require a permit since they are not permanent structures. Check with your town building department — McDumpsters can advise on requirements for all 13 towns in our service area.

What About the Pool Deck?

If your pool has a concrete deck or patio surrounding it, that can be removed at the same time. Concrete removal typically adds $3-6 per square foot to the project cost.

Inground vs. Above Ground: Which Do We Handle?

McDumpsters handles above ground pool demolition and removal — we dismantle the structure, haul away all materials, and leave your yard clean. For inground pool removal, you will need a licensed excavation contractor with heavy equipment. We can handle the concrete deck removal and debris hauling portions of an inground job.

Call McDumpsters at (978) 375-2272 for a free above ground pool removal quote. Serving Billerica, Chelmsford, Lowell, Tewksbury, and all of Middlesex County.