How Much Does It Cost to Fill In a Pool? A Comprehensive Guide
Quick answer: Filling in a pool in Ontario typically costs between $10,000 and $25,000, depending on whether you choose a partial or full fill-in, the type of pool (vinyl or gunite), its size, and how easy it is to access. Most projects are completed in about 3 to 4 days.
Filling in a pool is a smart move for a lot of homeowners. Maybe the maintenance and seasonal costs no longer make sense, maybe the kids have grown up, or maybe you simply want that part of your yard (or basement, in the case of an indoor pool) back for something you will actually use. Whatever the reason, the most common first question is the same: what does it cost, and what is actually involved?
Here is a clear breakdown so you can plan and budget with confidence, and know what to look for in a contractor who will do the job properly from start to finish.
Cost Breakdown
Partial Fill-In
A partial fill-in involves removing the pool’s water, drilling holes in the bottom for drainage, and filling the shell with a mixture of pack fill. It is the faster and more affordable of the two methods.
Full Fill-In
A full fill-in requires completely removing all pool components and filling the space with compacted soil. Because the shell is removed rather than left in place, this method gives you a more stable base for future landscaping or construction, and it tends to settle less over time.
Cost Comparison
| Method | Pool Type | Typical Cost (Ontario) |
| Partial fill-in | Vinyl | $10,000 to $15,000 |
| Partial fill-in | Gunite | $12,000 to $15,000 |
| Full fill-in | Vinyl | $12,000 to $15,000 |
| Full fill-in | Gunite | $12,000 to $25,000 |
Additional Costs
A few extras can affect the final number, depending on your property:
- Decking removal: Roughly $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the size of the pool and the materials involved.
- Landscaping: Varies widely, but expect $1,000 to $5,000 for basic work to finish the space.
- Permits: In most cases, a standard pool fill-in does not require a permit. A permit usually only comes into play if you plan to build a structure (such as an addition, garage, or large deck) over the filled-in area later on. If that is part of your plan, it is worth mentioning early so we can advise you.
What’s Involved?
Every property is a little different, but most pool fill-in projects follow the same general path.
Assessment
We start with an on-site evaluation to determine the pool size, the materials to be removed, access to the work area, and any additional costs. This is also where we recommend partial versus full based on your plans for the space.
Materials and Equipment
Typical materials include a sand or clay base, topsoil, and sod. For a full fill-in, compacted soil is used to build a stable base.
The Fill-In
The pool is drained and either partially or fully removed, then filled and compacted in layers. Proper compaction at this stage is what prevents settling and sinking down the road.
Final Touches
We level the surface, add topsoil, and finish with landscaping so the area is ready for whatever you have planned next.
How Long Does It Take?
For most jobs, the actual work takes 3 to 4 days, depending on the method and site conditions. A full fill-in takes a little longer than a partial one because of the extra removal work. Since most fill-ins do not require a permit, there is usually no long waiting period before we can get started. If your project is one of the rare cases that does need a permit (because of future construction over the area), we will let you know up front so it can be factored into the timeline.
Factors That Can Influence Cost
Pool Size and Type
Larger pools, and those with complex designs, cost more to fill. A bigger pool simply needs more pack fill, and features like curves, multiple depths, or an integrated spa take more time and labour to fill properly. These pools also tend to have more extensive plumbing and electrical that needs to be removed or managed.
Indoor vs. Outdoor
Indoor pools come with their own considerations, including access, ventilation, and how the surrounding floor and structure are finished afterward. We handle both, but the approach differs from a typical backyard pool.
Location and Soil
Soil type and local conditions can affect both the materials needed and the labour involved.
Accessibility
If it is difficult to get equipment to the pool area, labour costs go up. Tight side-yard access or a pool tucked behind structures takes more time and effort.
Additional Features
Pools with extensive plumbing or electrical components require more work to remove or fill safely.
Why Hiring the Right Contractor Matters
When you are choosing a contractor, ask how they handle drainage, how they compact the fill, and whether they finish the surface so it is ready for landscaping.
Filling in a pool looks simple from the outside, but the part you cannot see is what matters most. The most common problems with a poorly done fill-in are settling, sinking, and drainage issues that show up months or years later, after the original crew is long gone. These almost always trace back to two things: inadequate drainage and poor compaction.
A bargain fill-in that skips proper drainage or rushes the compaction can leave you with a sunken, soggy patch of yard and a much bigger repair bill. This is exactly why our personas come to us looking for someone who handles the entire process correctly the first time. When you are choosing a contractor, ask how they handle drainage, how they compact the fill, and whether they finish the surface so it is ready for landscaping.
Will Filling In a Pool Affect My Home’s Value?
It is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer is often more positive than people expect. A filled-in pool can remove a maintenance burden that scares off certain buyers and open up usable yard space that adds appeal.
We cover this in full, including who benefits most, here: Does a Pool Lower Property Value in Ontario?
Help Us Give You an Accurate Quote
Every project is different, and the more detail you can share up front, the smoother things go (and the fewer surprises along the way). When you reach out, it helps to include:
- Photos of the pool and the surrounding area
- The type of pool (vinyl or gunite, indoor or outdoor)
- Yard entry points and how easy the area is to access
- Any decking, landscaping, or future build plans for the space
These details help us give you a realistic estimate and plan the work properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fill in a pool myself? It is possible, but not recommended. Proper drainage and compaction are what keep the area stable for years to come, and getting either wrong can lead to settling and drainage problems that cost far more to fix than the original job.
How long does the process take? Typically 3 to 4 days, depending on the method and site conditions. A full fill-in takes a little longer than a partial one.
Will I need a permit? In most cases, no. A standard fill-in usually does not require a permit. One is generally only needed if you plan to build a structure over the filled-in area later on.
Will the ground settle over time? A properly compacted fill-in is designed to minimize settling. This is one of the biggest reasons to work with an experienced contractor rather than cutting corners, since improper compaction is the leading cause of sinking down the road.
What’s the difference between a partial and a full fill-in? A partial fill-in leaves the shell in place and fills it with pack fill, while a full fill-in removes all components and fills the space with compacted soil.
Does filling in a pool affect my home’s value? It often helps. We explain who benefits and why here: Does a Pool Lower Property Value in Ontario?
Can I build over the filled-in area later? Often yes, especially with a full fill-in, which provides a more stable base. If building over the area is part of your plan, tell us early so we can recommend the right method and flag whether a permit will be needed. Read also: Can I Build Over a Filled-In Pool?
Do you handle indoor pools too? Yes. We fill in both indoor and outdoor pools. Indoor projects involve some additional considerations around access and finishing, and we are happy to walk you through them.
Filling in a pool is a significant project that can cut long-term maintenance costs and give you back usable space. Understanding the costs and the process helps you make an informed decision and choose the right contractor for the job.
For a personalized quote and professional advice, contact The Pool Fill In People today. We would love to hear about your project!
This article was originally published in June 2024 and was last updated in June 2026 with current pricing and expanded guidance.