Small backyards are not a reason to write off fun upgrades like an above ground pool. You can find both soft and hard-sided above ground pools as small as 8 feet in diameter as well as 9-by-18-feet rectangles or 10-by-16-feet ovals. You will need at least 2 to 3 feet around the outside of your pool for additional support and for placing pool equipment, but a professional pool installer can help you find a model that's right for your tiny outdoor space.

A good rule of thumb is to add one or two 40-pound bags of salt for every inch of rain, but you’ll want to test your salt levels first to ensure you’re adding the right amount. Rainwater can dilute the salt levels in your pool, so after significant rainfall, test the levels and add the appropriate amount of salt to bring it back to the ideal level.

Round and freeform pools are popular choices for a small backyard, although a small yard may be able to accommodate a variety of shapes. When planning a pool for your small yard, remember to take into account pool deck space, fencing requirements, and other pool-related factors that may limit your choices.

Yes, adding a pool to your property will almost always increase your homeowners insurance premiums. This is because pools are considered a greater liability due to their potentially hazardous nature, and the added replacement cost of the pool is factored into your home's rebuilding cost when considering coverage limits. The amount of the increase can range from as little as $50 to a few hundred dollars more per year, depending on your insurance provider, location, current coverage, and the safety features installed. Before building a pool, it is highly recommended to contact your insurance agent to get an estimate, discuss their specific guidelines and requirements, and factor the increased premium into your total pool installation costs.