Pond Digging & Pool Pad Equipment Rental in Metro Detroit
A backyard pond, water garden, or level pad for a pool or hot tub starts with a lot of digging. C&W Equipment Rentals rents the mini excavator that does it, plus a mini skid steer and dump trailer to move the soil, across Metro Detroit.
Which machine for which job
| Job | Best machine | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Digging a backyard pond or water garden | CFG H13R mini excavator | Shapes shelves and slopes precisely |
| Leveling a pad for an above-ground pool | Ditch Witch SK800 or AGT YSRT14 with bucket | Cuts high spots and levels the base |
| Hot tub or swim spa pad prep | AGT YSRT14 mini skid steer | Digs out and spreads gravel base |
| Moving the dirt you dig out | PJ 7x14 dump trailer | Ponds create a lot of spoils |
How a backyard pond goes
- Call MISS DIG 811 at least 3 business days ahead.
- Check permits: ponds near wetlands, lakes or streams may need a permit from Michigan EGLE or your city.
- Mark the shape with paint or a hose.
- Dig in stages: a plant shelf around the edge (about 8 to 12 inches deep), then the deeper center. Fish ponds in Michigan usually need at least 2 to 3 feet in the deepest spot so they don't freeze solid.
- Move the spoils: use them to build a berm or waterfall, or haul them away in the dump trailer.
- Add underlayment and liner, then edge with stone.
Above-ground pool and hot tub pads
A pool needs a perfectly level base. Cut down the high side rather than building up the low side, since fill can settle. The mini skid steer strips sod and levels the area in a few hours, and the bucket spreads sand or gravel base. For hot tubs, check the manufacturer's pad requirements first.
Delivery, hours and service area
Free delivery and pickup within 10 miles, then $5 per mile. We serve all of Metro Detroit, including Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties, plus Ann Arbor, Brighton and Howell. Open 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday, 7am to 2pm Sunday.
Book online or call (248) 303-8515.
Pond digging FAQ
What equipment do I need to dig a pond?
For a backyard pond or water garden, a mini excavator is the right tool. Add a dump trailer or skid steer to move the soil.
How deep should a backyard pond be in Michigan?
If you'll keep fish over winter, plan on at least 2 to 3 feet in the deepest area so it doesn't freeze solid.
Do I need a permit to dig a pond in Michigan?
Small backyard ponds often don't, but ponds near wetlands, lakes or streams may need a permit from Michigan EGLE. Check with your city first.
Book the equipment for this job
CFG H13R mini excavator · AGT YSRT14 mini skid steer · PJ 7x14 dump trailer · Full inventory