GUIDE TO CENTRAL NJ POOL PLANNING & INSTALLATION

Actual facts on local zoning codes, timelines and budgets.

So you want an inground pool?

Here’s everything you need to know about how a new pool installation works with Levco.

The Levco Difference (Our Pre-Screening Process)

• We don’t believe in wasting your time. Before we ever drive out to your property for a consultation, we perform a deep-dive zoning pre-screen to make sure your dream is actually buildable.
• We analyze your property survey and slope using Google Earth.
• We call your town’s zoning office directly to find out your properties specific zoning requirements and limitations.
• We tell you honestly if a pool is legally allowed and which type makes the most financial sense.

The Timeline (When Can I Actually Swim?)

We have a running joke here: the real question isn’t how fast we can build, but how fast can you make a decision?

All joking aside, your timeline starts with how quickly you finalize your design choices. Once those decisions are made, the biggest variable isn’t how fast we can dig your pool it’s how fast your township will review your permit application and issue the required permits.

Phase 1: Design & Contracting

Finalizing your backyard layout on paper and signing the contract. (2 to 4 Weeks)

Phase 2: Engineering & Permit Prep

We prepare and submit engineering layouts to your town. (2 Weeks)

Phase 3: Municipal Review

Your township reviews the plans (This timeline varies by township) (1 to 3 Months)

Phase 4: Construction

• Vinyl Liner Build Time: Approx 2 weeks from when we excavation to completion (assuming timely inspections by township). Does not include pool patio.
• Gunite Build Time: Approx 3-4 months from excavation to swim-ready—this is due to concrete and plaster curing requirements.
• The Variance Exception: If your design violates a township setback or property line limit, you have to petition the town committee for a "variance." This process requires public hearings and can add 3 months to a year to your timeline.

The Realistic Budget (It’s Never Just a Pool)

When you build a pool, you’re transforming your entire backyard. The pool itself is only one piece of the puzzle.

You also have to factor in township safety codes (like fencing), restoration from excavation damage, and the overall landscape.

Custom Vinyl Liner Pools vs. Custom Gunite (Concrete)

Every property has different grading (slopes) and soil. Your yard’s topography can dictate which pool type is actually possible. 

Here are the usual options: 

The “Collateral Damage” Factor:

Heavy excavators will tear up your grass. If you have an existing lawn sprinkler system or underground sprinkler system, those will need to be rerouted and repaired. Always budget a buffer for putting your yard “back together”. 

Scale of Project: Who Manages What?

• Standard Pool Builds: If you just want a clean pool, patio, and fence, our construction manager, Peter Lindia, oversees the entire scope from start to finish. Peter has been with Levco since 1986, and has literally built 1000’s of pools. You won’t find a more experienced and knowledgeable pool builder in New Jersey.
• The Full Backyard Oasis: If your dream includes a pool house, outdoor kitchen, custom pavilions, fire pits, or complex landscape design, our landscape designer, Dominick Stanzione will design and execute the entire property. Dominick, has designed and built 100’s of pools and backyards, his commitment to detail and execution set him and Levco above the rest.