How Much Deck Do You Need Around an Inground Pool?

Minimum Deck Width

• According to the Swimming Pool Ideas website, pool decks should be at least 4 feet wide. Pool decks that are at least 4 feet wide provide a safe surface for entering or exiting the pool. Municipal codes for residential pool deck generally require 4 foot wide decks.

Maximum Deck Width

• The only physical limitation on an in-ground pool deck is the size of the yard. Municipal zoning may impact how large your pool and its deck can be. Also, the various proportions of a pool and deck should be taken into consideration.

Figuring Footprint

• If you want an in-ground pool, you need to make sure your yard is big enough. To figure the size of a pool plus its deck, add 8 feet each to a pool's width and its length. For example, if your pool will be 18 feet wide by 40 feet long you'll need a yard at least 26 feet wide by 48 feet long. Swimming pool footprints are also known as their "base wides."

Considerations

• Pool decks aren't normally included in the base costs of in-ground swimming pools. Pool decks can be made of concrete, pavers, wood, or other materials. Some municipalities classify decks wider than 4 feet as patio decks, which require different building permits. Nearly all municipalities require permits for installation of a pool and deck.