Pool removal: what it involves
The 2024 storms filled a lot of St. Pete and beach pools with sand and saltwater and flattened the cages around them. Some owners rebuild the pool; others take it out, especially when the house is coming down and the new home needs the space.
There are two ways to remove a pool. A partial removal breaks the top of the shell, punches drain holes in the floor and fills the rest; a full removal takes out all of the concrete. Full removal costs more but leaves no buried shell, which matters if you plan to build on that part of the lot.
What pool removal includes
- Pool drained and equipment disconnected
- Screen cage, deck and coping removed
- Shell broken out, partly or fully
- Drain holes punched in a partial removal
- Clean fill brought in and compacted in lifts
- Area graded and ready for sod or a new structure
Tell us what needs to come down and when.
Free estimateHow a pool removal goes
- Choose partial or fullBased on what you plan to build there.
- PermitPool removals generally need a permit from your city.
- Demolish and fillShell broken, fill placed and compacted.
- Final inspectionPermit closed, area graded.
Tip: if a buyer or builder may ever put a structure where the pool was, ask for a full removal and keep the compaction test results with your property records.
What pool removal costs
HomeAdvisor's national figures put filling in a pool at $4,000 to $12,000, about $8,000 on average; a full removal costs more than a partial one.
Reference figures, not quotes: HomeAdvisor, remove and fill in a pool, checked November 2026.
Where it is requested most
- Snell IsleOlder homes being restored after the surge.
- Redington BeachHomes restored inside after flooding.
- St. Pete BeachRebuilds on pilings need the slab gone.
Related: Slab & Foundation Removal, House Demolition.
Pool Removal questions
What is the difference between partial and full pool removal?
Partial removal leaves the lower shell buried with drain holes; full removal takes out all the concrete. Full removal is better if you will build there.
Can the pool come out with the house demolition?
Yes, and it is usually cheaper than a separate job.
Do you remove screen cages too?
Yes. Cages bent by the storms are cut down and hauled away with the pool.