Small Lots, Big Pools (Relatively Speaking)
LA's older neighborhoods—Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Burbank, Glendale—are filled with 5,000-7,000 square foot lots. After the house, garage, and setbacks, you might have a yard that's 20x30 feet. Homeowners assume that's too small for a pool. It's not.
We've built pools on lots that landscape architects said were impossible. Here are the strategies that make it work.
Strategy 1: The Spool (Cocktail Pool)
A spool is a small pool/spa hybrid—typically 8x12 to 10x16 feet. It has a flat bottom at 4-4.5 feet, spa jets, and heating. You can swim (short laps), lounge, soak, and cool off. It's the single best solution for lots under 6,000 sq ft.
- Typical size: 8x12 to 10x16 feet
- Depth: 4-4.5 feet flat bottom
- Cost: $45,000-$75,000 complete
- Features: Spa jets, heater, LED lights, one water feature
- Deck requirement: 3-5 feet minimum on swim sides
Strategy 2: Maximize with Geometry
Rectangular pools use space most efficiently. A 10x20 pool has 200 sq ft of water in a 200 sq ft footprint. A freeform pool with the same water area needs a 250+ sq ft footprint because of curves. On small lots, every square foot matters.
Strategy 3: Raised Pool Walls
When you can't dig out (rock, utility lines, or property line setbacks), build up. Raised pool walls let you position the pool closer to lot boundaries while meeting setback requirements. The raised wall doubles as a seating ledge or water feature wall.
Strategy 4: Multi-Level Design
On sloped lots, step the pool and deck across the grade change. The pool occupies one level, the patio another. This reclaims space that flat construction would lose to retaining walls.
LA Setback Requirements
LADBS requires minimum 3-foot setback from property lines for pools (measured from water's edge). Equipment must be 5 feet from property lines. Structures (pergolas, outdoor kitchens) have additional setback requirements. Always verify with your local planning department—some neighborhoods have overlay zones with different rules.
Design Tips for Small Pool Areas
- Use the same material everywhere: Cohesive materials make small spaces feel larger
- Minimize transitions: Every material change creates a visual break that makes the space feel smaller
- Add vertical interest: Raised walls, fire bowls on columns, and vertical landscaping draw the eye up
- Choose one focal point: Don't compete for attention in a small space
- Consider a tanning ledge: A 4-6 foot baja shelf adds lounging without consuming pool length
💡 Pro Tip
Before giving up on a pool, get an actual property survey. Many homeowners overestimate their setback distances. I've seen cases where the 'too small' yard actually had room for a 12x24 pool once we measured accurately.
Everyone said our lot was too small. Elan designed a 10x20 with a raised spa and we have 4 feet of deck on every side. It's perfect. — Ryan & Sarah B.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the smallest pool you can build?
Practically, about 6x10 feet (a plunge pool). Spools at 8x12 are the smallest functional swimming/soaking pools we typically build.
How much does a small pool cost in LA?
Spools and small pools range from $45,000-$75,000. Per square foot, small pools cost more than large ones because fixed costs (equipment, plumbing, permits) don't scale down.
What is the setback for a pool in Los Angeles?
LADBS requires minimum 3 feet from property lines to pool water's edge. Equipment needs 5-foot setback. Check for neighborhood-specific overlay zone requirements.
Can you put a pool in a side yard?
Yes, if setback requirements are met. We've built narrow pools (6-8 feet wide) in side yards as plunge pools or lap pools.
