The 3 Pitfalls to Avoid When Installing a Backyard Pond

Backyard ponds make attractive water features. Whether you live in the suburbs and want to install a small koi pond or if you live in a rural area and enjoy a sizable customized pond installation, there are certain things you must first consider.

Proper planning before your pond installation will ensure you are happy with the final result and enjoy the pond for many years.

There are many common pitfalls of installing residential ponds. Part of your planning process should be to avoid these three: 

Not Obtaining Necessary Government Permits and HOA Permissions

Some communities outright ban the installation of residential ponds to control mosquito populations or other nuisances. In other areas, you're free to install a pond on your property, but you must obtain a building permit just like you would if you were building a swimming pool or a fence.

Before you get too far into the planning process for your pond, check with your city, county, and homeowners association to ensure you are allowed to build the pond you want. The time to know for sure is during the planning process, not later when you must tear out your new pond.

The Pond Location Is Too Far from Utilities

When you install a backyard pond, it needs to be located in an area close to power and water.

For example, ponds constantly lose water to evaporation and need fresh water to replenish their supply. This is no big deal if you build your pond near a water spigot. However, if you install the pond a long way from a water spigot, you will either have to pay for the installation of another or quickly tire of dragging around hoses.

A pond also needs access to electricity. All ponds need a pump to circulate the water so that it doesn't go stagnant. Pond pumps require electricity to operate. While you may want to put the pond in the very back corner of your property, this may be an expensive choice if you have to have an electrician install a power line for the pump.

Not Building a Suitable Pond to House Fish or Frogs

Finally, it is essential to consider what life you want to put in your new pond during the design stage.

For example, if the primary purpose of your new backyard pond is to have frogs or fish, then your pond must be able to house them safely. Both frogs and fish need extra air and different accommodations than a pond designed only to support vegetative life. 

Planning for the pond life you want will ensure the pond will keep them healthy and thriving. Reach out to a service such as Quilici Gardening to find out more.