Building a pool in South Florida typically takes 8 to 14 weeks; however, this timeframe varies widely depending on design complexity, permitting, weather conditions, and HOA requirements.
In this article, we’ll walk you through each step and help you understand what might speed up—or delay—your pool project.
Phase 1: Design and Engineering (3 Days to 3 Months)
The design phase is where it all begins. A clear plan that includes your desired pool shape, depth, and features can help move things along quickly, sometimes in under a week. If you’re undecided or exploring multiple options, the process may take longer.
In South Florida, properties often have design constraints such as lot size, drainage issues, or HOA guidelines. These factors can influence how quickly plans can be finalized and submitted.
Note: Some communities, like those in Parkland or Boynton Beach, require HOA approval before permitting, which can extend this phase.
Phase 2: Permitting (4 to 8 Weeks, Varies by Municipality)
Each municipality has its own permitting rules and review timelines. For example:
- Coral Springs and Delray Beach: Generally process permits in 3–5 weeks
- Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach: Can take 6–8 weeks or more, especially during peak seasons
Gated communities and those with active HOAs may add additional time for review and approval.
Phase 3: Excavation (1–2 Weeks, Weather Dependent)
Excavation involves preparing the site and digging the pool shell. This stage is heavily influenced by weather. In the rainy season (typically June through September), saturated ground can delay work.
The process temporarily restricts backyard access, which can affect daily routines. However, once completed, it paves the way for the rest of the project.
Phase 4: Plumbing, Electrical, and Forming (1 Week)
This phase includes installing the underground plumbing, electrical conduits, and forming the pool structure with concrete. After the concrete is applied, it must cure for several days to ensure structural integrity, especially important in humid climates like South Florida’s.
Phase 5: Tile, Coping, and Decking (1–2 Weeks)
With the structure in place, finishing touches begin. Tile, coping, and decking materials are installed, each affecting the overall look and functionality of your pool area.
Materials that are locally available can speed things up, while custom or imported finishes may take longer to arrive. Planning ahead and choosing materials early can help avoid delays.
Phase 6: Interior Finish, Fill, and Final Inspection (3–5 Days)
Once the surfaces are finished, the pool is filled and chemically balanced. Final inspections are conducted to ensure everything is working as intended. This is also the time when homeowners are typically given an orientation on how to care for and maintain their new pool.
A Sample Project: Bruce Politano’s Experience in Loxahatchee
To better understand how these steps come together, consider the experience of Bruce Politano, a homeowner in Loxahatchee, who recently completed a pool project.
The design phase went quickly—the first rendering matched the homeowners’ vision almost perfectly. After choosing materials at a local showroom, including marble decking and pool tile, they moved into permitting, which took several weeks due to HOA coordination.
Excavation began once approvals were secured. Despite a few weather delays, the crew maintained a clean, organized worksite. Plumbing and structural work followed, with concrete forming and curing completed within the typical timeframe. Tile, coping, and custom finishes were installed next, with final fill and testing wrapping up the process.
The entire project—from initial design through final inspection—followed a schedule close to the one outlined below.
Bruce shared, “We really enjoy this pool—it brings our family closer together and it definitely helps us create happy memories. The process was smooth, and the crew was always professional and clean.”
Realistic Timeline: What to Expect
| Stage | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Design & Engineering | 1–12 weeks |
| Permitting | 4–8 weeks |
| Excavation | 1–2 weeks |
| Plumbing & Forming | 1 week |
| Tile, Deck, Coping | 1–2 weeks |
| Interior & Final Setup | 3–5 days |
| Total Build Time | 8–14 weeks on average |
Some delays—such as weather, material availability, or permit processing—are outside of a builder’s control, but being aware of these possibilities helps manage expectations.
Key Takeaways
While building a pool isn’t an overnight task, understanding the typical process can make it more manageable. For homeowners in South Florida, taking into account local permitting times, seasonal weather, and property-specific variables will provide a more realistic view of the timeline.
About the Author
I’m Nilson Silva, owner and founder of Master Touch Pools. Since starting the company in 2009, I’ve been focused on helping South Florida homeowners build high-quality pools tailored to their properties and lifestyles.
From day one, I’ve had the support of my wife and business partner, Claudia Silva. In the early years, Claudia managed operations, materials, and customer service while I led field installations. Her work was key to getting Master Touch off the ground and delivering results our clients could trust.
Today, while Claudia focuses on our family, the values we built the company on—integrity, attention to detail, and clear communication—still guide everything we do.
We live in Coral Springs with our two children, Noah and Mia. When I’m not on job sites or working with clients, I’m usually with them—at the beach, grilling in the backyard, or just enjoying time together. Family is my motivation, and why I care so deeply about building something lasting for you.
