13 Oct In-Ground Pool Removal in Westchester: Partial vs Full Removal
There are two ways to remove an in-ground pool: partial removal, where the top of the pool is broken off, the floor is cracked for drainage and the hole is filled, and full removal, where the whole shell is dug out and hauled away. In Westchester the choice is not always yours. The Town of Cortlandt, for example, allows partial removal only for concrete pools, and requires any pool built from other materials to be “removed in its entirety.” Most towns also require a permit before work starts.
Partial vs full removal at a glance
| Partial removal (break and fill) | Full removal | |
|---|---|---|
| What happens | Top of the walls broken off, drainage holes made in the floor, hole backfilled | Entire shell, liner and equipment removed, hole backfilled |
| What stays in the ground | The lower walls and floor of the pool | Nothing |
| Pool types it suits | Concrete or gunite pools, where the town allows it | Any pool; required for non-concrete pools in some towns |
| Example rule | Cortlandt: cut at least 12 inches around the top, at least six 12-inch drainage holes in the floor | Cortlandt: required for pools “constructed with materials other than concrete” |
| Permit | Usually yes | Usually yes |
What is partial pool removal?
Partial removal, often called “break and fill” or “pool abandonment,” leaves the lower part of the pool in place. The Town of Cortlandt’s pool demolition rules for concrete pools set the standard clearly: “Cut off a minimum of 12″ around the top of the pool and break out a minimum 6 (six) 12″ diameter or equivalent holes in the bottom for drainage.” The drainage holes stop the old shell from holding water under the fill.
Cortlandt also states that “Broken concrete from the site cannot be used” as fill, so the broken material is hauled away and clean fill is brought in.
What is full pool removal?
Full removal takes everything out: the concrete or steel walls, the floor, the liner, plumbing and equipment. The hole is then backfilled and compacted. Because nothing is left buried, the area can be used much like any other part of the yard. In Cortlandt it is not optional for some pools: “Any pool and/or spa constructed with materials other than concrete must be removed in its entirety.”
Which pools can be partially removed in Westchester?
It depends on your town. We found no New York State rule on partial versus full removal, so each municipality sets its own. Cortlandt allows partial removal for concrete pools only. If your town’s rules are not published, ask the building department before you choose a method, because the method affects the price and the timeline.
Do I need a permit to remove an in-ground pool in Westchester?
Usually, yes. Cortlandt’s rules state: “NO WORK CAN COMMENCE UNTIL A PERMIT IS ISSUED.” Greenburgh handles pools through its general demolition permit application, which notes that drawings are “not required for sheds or above-ground pools” and that its asbestos certificate is “not for sheds or pool structures.” Requirements differ between towns, so check with your local building department.
Do I need to call 811 before removing a pool?
Yes. Pool removal means digging, and the UDig NY Excavator Manual requires a location request “at least two (2) working days but not more than ten (10) working days before any excavation or demolition starts,” including on private property.
Which method should I choose?
- Choose full removal if your town requires it for your pool type, if you plan to build on the spot later, or if you want nothing left in the ground.
- Consider partial removal if you have a concrete pool, your town allows it, and the area will become lawn or garden.
- Either way, get the permit first, make sure the fill is clean and compacted, and keep the paperwork.
Pool removal across Westchester
Demolition Experts NY handles pool demolition and removal across Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and Fairfield County. See our pool demolition service, or our Westchester demolition checklist for the permit and utility steps. Request a free estimate or call 914-737-0823.
Sources
- Town of Cortlandt, Pool Demolition Permit Information.
- Town of Greenburgh, Demolition Permit Application.
- UDig NY, Excavator Manual 2026.
Cite this page: “In-Ground Pool Removal in Westchester: Partial vs Full Removal”, Demolition Experts NY, October 2026. Rules vary by town; confirm with your local building department.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between partial and full pool removal?
Partial removal breaks off the top of the pool, makes drainage holes in the floor and fills the hole, leaving the lower shell in the ground. Full removal takes out the entire shell, liner and equipment before backfilling.
Can I partially remove a vinyl or fiberglass pool in Westchester?
It depends on the town. The Town of Cortlandt requires any pool or spa built with materials other than concrete to be removed in its entirety.
What are the rules for partial pool removal in Cortlandt, NY?
For concrete pools, cut off at least 12 inches around the top and break at least six 12-inch diameter holes in the bottom for drainage. Broken concrete from the site cannot be used as fill, and no work can start until a permit is issued.
Do I need a permit to remove a pool in Westchester County?
Usually yes. Towns such as Cortlandt state that no work can begin until a permit is issued. Check with your town or city building department.
Do I need to call 811 before removing a pool?
Yes. UDig NY requires a location request at least two and no more than ten working days before any excavation or demolition, including on private property.
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