How Much Total Space Is Around a Swimming Pool?

Activities by the Pool

• There is nothing wrong with spending the majority of the time with the pool around the perimeter instead of inside it, as long as you anticipate that you or your guests will need adequate space for the activities. If you plan to install a diving board or a slide, leave enough room to install the proper hardware needed for operation.

Seating

• Just because someone sits by the pool doesn't mean they want to get wet. There should be adequate space for parents to supervise children or for others to enjoy the sun without getting splashed on the deck. The chairs should be far enough away from the edge of the pool to prevent even the largest of splashes from touching the individual. This is especially important if someone intends to read or use electronics that can be damaged by water while poolside.

Eating

• Children and adults alike may sit at a table beside the pool and enjoy their lunch or dinner while looking at the clear blue waters. A basic four-person table will typically need an area of at least 10-by-10 feet, while a six-person table expands these dimensions to 12-by-12 feet. If you want to do the actual cooking beside the pool, leave an area no smaller than 6 square feet.

Factors for Consideration

• Other factors should be taken into account when planning your pool design. Unless your land is unlimited in size, you have space considerations to take into account when deciding how large of a pool to install and how much space you can afford to leave around the outer edge. If you're only looking to leave enough space for someone to walk, a 3-foot strip should be adequate. Draw out a blueprint before making any changes to your land or making any big decisions about the design.