Key Takeaways
Check local permits and water-disposal rules before you start; decks and retaining walls may need their own.
Gather basic tools and a disposal plan upfront so parts don’t pile up with nowhere to go.
Work top-down: drain, remove accessories, then rails and uprights, liner, walls, frame, and base.
Bag hardware as you go and set aside anything re-sellable, like ladders and solar covers.
Dispose by condition: sell or donate usable parts, recycle scrap metal, or call a junk removal service.
How To Get Rid of an Above-Ground Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide
An above-ground pool’s the highlight of the backyard until it’s taking up space you'd rather use for a new fire pit. Once you're ready to dispose of it, though, you can't exactly roll the whole thing to the curb. Pool removal means draining it, dismantling the frame, and figuring out how to dispose of the liner and other bulky parts.
So, how do you tackle this project without turning your yard into a demolition zone? From doing the disassembly yourself to hiring junk removal pros, we’ll walk you through how to get rid of an above-ground pool and what each option involves.
What To Consider Before Above-Ground Pool Removal
A little prep can save you from staring down a pile of loose pool parts with no idea what to do next. Before you start the tear down, here's what to sort out.
Local Permits and Regulations
Check your local rules for pool removal and water disposal, and review any permit requirements that may apply. These regulations can dictate where you're allowed to release pool water, especially when it contains chlorine and other chemicals.
Structures surrounding a pool may also have separate permit requirements. If you’re planning on tearing down a deck, check with your local building department beforehand.
Tools and Equipment
If you’re wondering how to take down an above-ground pool, start with your toolbox. The right equipment for the job depends on which type of above-ground setup you have (like whether or not the pool has a soft-sided or steel frame). The tools also need to change if you’re disconnecting a pump, filter, or ladder.
Check the manual for your specific pool model so you know how the components fit together and which tools are best. Typically, you’ll need the following:
- Siphon hose
- Cordless drill
- Wrench set
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Utility knife
- Work gloves
A Plan for Disposal
Don't wait until your backyard’s covered in old pool parts to figure out where they're going. Before you start the removal, check what your local waste and recycling program accepts and whether you can leave bulky items at the curb or you have to drop them off somewhere.
You might be able to reuse some components that are in good condition—say solar covers and steel ladders—but you’ll need to sort the remaining debris for appropriate disposal. When you know your plan ahead of time, each piece has an intentional space and won’t end up as garage junk.
How To Disassemble an Above-Ground Pool: 7 Steps
Above-ground pool disassembly looks like a pretty big job, but if you work through it piece by piece, it’s definitely manageable. Your pool's design determines exactly how it comes apart, so pull out the instructions before you start dismantling it.
Here are the typical steps to disassemble most above-ground pools.
1. Drain the Pool Completely
First things first—all that water has to go somewhere. Turn off the power for the pump, and disconnect it and the filter, then follow your pool directions for draining the pool. Typically, you’ll need to send the water down a sanitary drain like a laundry tub or onto your lawn, but rules vary according to where you live.
2. Remove the Accessories
Once the water’s gone, clear out the easy stuff before tackling the pool’s main structure. Take off removable accessories like the ladder, steps, and hoses. Follow the manual—certain items (like skimmer baskets) could be connected to the filtration system, and it’s best to know the proper step by step.
If there are accessories you want to reuse, recycle, or sell, put them in a separate pile. Otherwise, stack everything together for disposal.
3. Take Off the Top Rails and Uprights
Once the accessories are out of the way, start at the top. Remove the caps and top rails according to the directions, and don't forget to keep track of the screws, bolts, and connectors as you go. Place this hardware into a labeled bag or container.
From there, remove the vertical uprights that support the pool wall. Work your way around one section at a time so you're not leaving loose pieces hanging or putting unnecessary pressure on the remaining structure.
4. Remove the Liner
Now you can deal with the pool liner. Pull it free carefully and drain any water trapped in the folds before you move it across the yard. A wet liner is pretty heavy, so it’s easier to fold and toss if you let it dry out first.
If you know you don’t want to keep or sell the pool liner, use heavy-duty scissors to cut it into smaller pieces. This makes it simpler to deal with.
5. Take Apart the Pool Wall
Once the top rails and uprights are gone, move on to the walls if your pool has rigid sides. Find the seam where the wall connects, remove the hardware, and carefully separate it as directed by the manufacturer.
We recommend recruiting someone to help with this part. It can be heavy and awkward, and the work may even involve sharp metal edges.
6. Disassemble the Frame
Next, tackle whatever pieces of the frame still hold your above-ground pool together. Depending on the model, this might mean removing the bottom rails and plates or pulling apart the poles and connectors.
7. Remove the Pool Base
Above-ground pools typically sit on a sand or stone dust bed, with blocks or pavers underneath. Pull up any pool pads, foam insulation, or interlocking mats first, then lift out the pavers (reuse these around the yard if you like). Once the base is gone, level the area so you can reclaim that space.
Above-Ground Pool Disposal: What To Do Once It's Taken Apart
The best option for disposing of an above-ground pool depends on which parts are still usable and how quickly you want them out of your yard.
Sell It or Give It Away
An unused pool doesn’t automatically belong in the trash. If it's still in decent shape, list the entire pool or individual parts through a local resale or giveaway group so someone else can use them. Be upfront about the pool’s condition. Even if the pool is usable, it’s best the new owner knows about any worn pieces.
Recycle the Metal and Materials
Don't send the whole pile straight to the landfill without checking what you can recycle. Scrap metal like steel walls and steel frames may be accepted at a local facility. Plastic and vinyl components tend to have different rules depending on where you live. Get in touch with nearby recycling facilities to see what they'll take.
Schedule a Bulk Trash Pickup or Rent a Dumpster
While your local waste service may offer bulk curbside pickup, above-ground pools aren't guaranteed to be accepted. A rental dumpster can be an option, but if you go this route, confirm ahead of time that the rental company’s okay with you tossing in pool liners and metal parts.
Hire a Junk Removal Service
If you want the pile gone without figuring out where to dispose of each part, call College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving. We offer professional junk removal services, hauling away most non-hazardous items, including pool parts, hot tubs, and backyard waste. Our trained teams lift unwanted items off your hands quickly, prioritizing eco-friendly disposal: We recycle or donate up to 70% of everything we take.
How To Get Rid of a Swimming Pool With College HUNKS
The right removal option for you comes down to what condition your pool’s in, how quickly you want it out of your backyard, and how much work you want to take on yourself. With a mindful plan, you can reclaim your backyard stress-free.
When you’d rather skip the heavy lifting, College HUNKS will haul the pieces for you. Our licensed, insured teams handle a job smoothly from start to finish, with same-day or next-day pickup often available.
Get in touch today to request a free, no-obligation quote.
Related Articles
Nationwide Locations
With over 200 locations in the US and Canada, you can find the right location for your needs.
Upfront Pricing
Before we begin any work, you'll always receive a free, no-obligation estimate.
Many of the questions we receive start with the simple phrase, "Can you move?" followed by several different questions about what our local moving and junk removal company can accommodate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Permit to Remove an Above-Ground Pool?
It depends on where you live. Some municipalities require a permit for pool removal, while others let you remove pools without one. Check with your local building or permitting department before you start the tear down.
Pro tip: Even if your pool doesn’t require a permit to remove it, your retaining walls and deck might. Do your research to avoid complications.
Can I Put Pool Parts in a Dumpster?
Some pool parts might be allowed in a dumpster, but don't assume you can toss in every piece. Typically, you can add non-hazardous debris like metal frames, supports, and liners. Chemicals, motorized parts, and heaters usually aren’t permitted. Check with your local waste management program to confirm details.
Where Does the Pool Water Go When I Drain It?
This depends on what's in your pool and what your local regulations are. Check the requirements in your area before you start draining it. Chemically treated water may need to go to a sanitary sewer or be discharged onto your lawn or garden. In some cases, like for high-salinity salt water pools, the water’s picked up and hauled away to a specialized waste treatment facility.
Pro tip: Don’t drain pools into storm drains. Pool chemicals can harm waterways and animals.
What items do you take?
We take almost anything non-hazardous: furniture, appliances, electronics, yard waste and more.
Where do my donated items go?
We partner with local charities to give usable items a second life.
Do you work with businesses?
Yes. We partner with national brands for moving and junk removal services across the country.
How do I open a franchise?
Visit our franchising page to learn about requirements and start the conversation with our team.
How do you use my information?
We only use your information to provide and improve our services. See our Privacy Policy for details.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
The crew was on time, friendly and incredibly efficient. They had our whole garage cleared in under an hour.
Professional from start to finish. They wrapped all of our furniture and nothing was damaged.
Great communication and fair pricing. I will definitely use College Hunks again.
They donated most of our old furniture, which meant a lot to us. Highly recommend!
Fast, careful and polite. The team made our move stress-free.
Booked online in minutes and the crew showed up exactly when promised.