What pool remodeling can cover
- Interior surface: replacing worn plaster with plaster, quartz or pebble finishes. See pool resurfacing.
- Tile and coping: new waterline tile and coping stones, often done with resurfacing since the pool is drained anyway.
- Deck: resurfacing or replacing cracked or hot decking. See pool deck remodeling.
- Equipment: variable-speed pumps, new filters, heaters, automation and lighting.
- Features: baja shelves, water features, fire features, spa additions and updated steps.
- Shape or depth changes: possible in some cases, but this is closer to new construction and needs engineering review.
Signs it is time to remodel
- Rough, stained or flaking plaster, or a surface that scrapes feet.
- Tile that is cracked, missing or permanently stained by calcium.
- Coping that is loose or a deck with wide cracks.
- Older single-speed pumps and equipment that need frequent repair.
- A pool layout that no longer fits how you use the yard.
Scottsdale rules to know
Pool barriers
Scottsdale’s current barrier requirements apply to single-family pools, spas and hot tubs built after July 20, 1995, with no exemption for households without children. The city also notes that the barrier rules in force when a pool was built still apply to it. When a remodel adds features or changes the yard, we plan fencing and gates with barrier rules in mind. See the City of Scottsdale pool page.
Draining the pool
Resurfacing requires draining. Scottsdale asks homeowners to keep pool water on their own property or drain it to the home’s sanitary sewer cleanout, not to the street or a neighbor’s yard, and suggests a rate of no more than 50 gallons per minute. Details are on the city’s pool draining page.
Permits
The city’s inspection FAQ says re-plastering is general maintenance and needs no permit or inspection. Equipment changes that involve new electrical circuits, gas lines or plumbing connections use trade permits. Easements also matter: Scottsdale says the pool, deck and equipment cannot disturb an easement.
HOA and neighbors
If your HOA reviews visible changes, equipment location, fencing and new features may need approval. Planning equipment placement also helps with noise for you and your neighbors.
More detail is in our guide: what to know before remodeling a pool in Scottsdale.
