How to Prepare Your Backyard for Pool Construction in Arizona

Once your pool builder pulls a permit and your start date is confirmed, there's work to do before the first excavator arrives. Preparing your backyard properly helps construction go smoothly, prevents unexpected delays, and can even reduce costs.

Here's what Arizona homeowners need to do before pool construction begins.

Step 1: Confirm Equipment Access to Your Backyard

Pool excavation requires heavy equipment — typically a mini-excavator or, in some cases, a larger unit. Before your start date:

• Measure your access gate width (minimum 36–48 inches; wider is better)

• Remove any gates, fencing sections, or obstacles that block access

• Clear vehicles and equipment from driveways and side yards

• Confirm there are no underground utilities in the path

If your lot in Queen Creek, Scottsdale, or Fountain Hills has restricted access, discuss this with your builder early. Some situations require hand digging or special equipment.

Step 2: Mark or Protect Existing Utilities

Before any digging begins:

• Call 811 (Arizona's "Call Before You Dig" service) to have utilities marked — this is legally required

• Identify your irrigation system layout and mark main lines

• Note the locations of any buried electrical for lighting, outdoor outlets, etc.

• Tell your builder about any septic systems, cisterns, or other underground infrastructure

Your builder should also call 811, but confirming it's done protects you.

Step 3: Remove Landscaping in the Construction Zone

Trees, shrubs, and plants within the pool's footprint — plus the surrounding deck area — will need to be removed. Decide in advance:

• Which plants you want to save and have transplanted

• Which can be removed and disposed of

• Whether mature trees near the pool need root barriers

Trees with aggressive root systems near pool walls can cause structural problems over time. Your builder can advise on appropriate setbacks.

Step 4: Make Arrangements for Pets and Children

Pool construction is a busy, hazardous environment. Active excavation, heavy equipment, open trenches, and construction materials create real safety risks.

• Make sure pets have a safe area away from the construction zone

• Keep children away from the work area during active construction

• Ask your builder about temporary fencing around the excavation site

Step 5: Discuss Soil Disposal

Excavating a pool removes enormous amounts of soil. In Arizona, this often includes caliche, which is heavy and dense. Discuss with your builder:

• Who is responsible for hauling away excavated material

• Whether you have space to stockpile soil temporarily

• Whether any material can be used to level other parts of your yard

Soil removal is sometimes included in a quote and sometimes billed separately — confirm before construction begins.

Step 6: Prepare for Noise and Disruption

Pool construction is a multi-week process. Let your neighbors know construction is starting — it's both courteous and can prevent misunderstandings. Excavation is the loudest phase; shotcrete application is messy; deck work involves concrete trucks. Plan accordingly, especially if you work from home or have young children napping.

Most Arizona cities have noise ordinances that restrict construction to daytime hours (typically 7 AM–10 PM; check your city's rules).

Ready to Build?

Island Style Pools guides homeowners through every step of the pre-construction process. We serve communities throughout the Phoenix and Tucson metro area, including Litchfield Park, Arcadia Proper, Carefree, and Oro Valley. Contact us today to start planning your project.

For the best pool deck material check out Real Island Stone.