🏊‍♂️ Building a Pool in the Dordogne: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Thinking about adding a swimming pool to your French property? Here’s everything you should know before taking the plunge — from planning permissions to choosing the right design for your home in the Dordogne.

Why the Dordogne Is Perfect for Pool Owners

With its warm summers, scenic countryside, and outdoor lifestyle, the Dordogne is one of the most popular regions in France for private pools. Whether you own a holiday home or live here full-time, a pool is more than a luxury — it’s an investment in your comfort, property value, and lifestyle.

At Pristine Piscines, we’ve helped countless homeowners across the Dordogne and Southwest France bring their dream pools to life — combining English-speaking service with high-quality French craftsmanship.

A pool installation, impeccably completed and surrounded by lush greenery, provides an ideal place for a refreshing swim, following a smooth design and construction process.

Planning Your Pool: What to Consider First

Before construction begins, it’s worth taking time to think through a few key details:

• Purpose: Is your pool for relaxation, family fun, or fitness?

• Space & Access: Is there room for equipment and safe access for installation?

• Sun Exposure: Position your pool where it gets the most sunlight for natural warmth.

• Safety: Remember that French law requires approved safety systems such as barriers, alarms, or covers.

💡 Tip: Think about how your pool will complement your outdoor living space — terraces, gardens, and views.

This dreamy pool has the winning combination of the right spot, the right size and the right price!

Understanding French Pool Permits

In France, pools over 10m² require a déclaration préalable de travaux (a basic works declaration) submitted to your local mairie (town hall). If your pool is over 100m², or you plan to build a large structure alongside it, you’ll need a building permit.

At Pristine Piscines, we take the stress and underate these steps for you, ensuring your design complies with local planning regulations and safety standards.

If your French isn't up to scratch that's no problem as we take care of this for you, all included in the service.

Choosing the Right Pool Type

In France, the majority of pools are liner pools, but the construction beneath the liner can vary significantly.

 Our pools are built with shuttered reinforced concrete. The structure consists of polypropylene panels that are either 1.2m or 1.5m in height and 1m in width, assembled on site. This enables a faster build compared to concrete block construction and has a reduced environmental impact.

A strong durable reinforced concrete pool construction using polypropylene panels.

This is favoured over the polystyrene block pool construction, which can degrade and is susceptible to infestations of ants.

Polystyrene is soft and porous enough for small insects to burrow into.

Budgeting and Timelines

The cost of our pools typically ranges between €35,000 and €60,000+, depending on materials, finishes, and features such as heating or automatic covers.

From the initial design phase to your first swim, the majority of projects require 8–12 weeks.

This timeframe accommodates the permit process and the curing period for the concrete.

At Pristine Piscines, we provide detailed quotes and clear timelines so you can plan with confidence.

Maximize your pool investment: smart choices ensures every euro helps create your dream pool

Finishing Touches That Make a Difference

Your pool isn’t just a structure — it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

Consider these popular add-ons to enhance your pool area:

• Surround materials like stone, tile, or wood decking

• Energy-efficient LED lighting

• Automatic or solar covers for safety and warmth

• Extend your pool season with pool heating.

• A pool house for all weather enjoyment.

Shade or shelter, a pool house is a fantastic addition !

Why Choose Pristine Piscines

Choosing a trusted local company ensures your pool is built correctly, safely, and beautifully. Our bilingual team combines technical expertise with a personalised approach, making the process smooth from start to finish.

Whether you’re a full-time resident or an expat with a holiday home, we understand what’s important to you — reliability, transparency, and results that last.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to explore your options, contact Julia@ Pristine Piscines today to schedule a site visit and provide a free, no-obligation quote to help you start planning your dream pool in the Dordogne.