Article: Start by deciding how much of your yard you're willing to devote to a pond. Afterward, multiply the length and width of the area to get the square footage. From here, you can determine how many fish you can accommodate by estimating that every 1 inch (2.5 cm) of fish requires 1 square foot (0.093 m2).  For instance, if you plan to add 10 fish that are each 5 inches (13 cm) in length, the pond should be at least 50 square feet (4.6 m2). If you install a filtration device, you can allow 2 inches (5.1 cm) of fish per square foot. Otherwise, don't break the 1 inch (2.5 cm) rule. Contact your local building department and ask how far the pond must be from property lines. Afterward, contact the local environmental department and ask about relevant regulations. Depending on where you live and the size of your pond, you might need to obtain a permit. For example, in Idaho, you need a Private Fish Pond Permit, which is free but must be renewed every 5 years.  Ask about free meetings from a certified pond consultant. They can help you determine how to best create a pond and consider variables like available soil types and potential rainfall. Determine if you need a fence around your pond. In some areas, local codes require fencing for ponds deeper than 18 inches (46 cm). Ponds should be placed in a region that is exposed to sunlight during the morning and shade in the afternoon. This will keep the water temperature cool and prevent algae blooms.  Avoid placing your pond under trees. Although this is great for shade, it will quickly clog the pond with seeds, leaves, or needles. Always factor in young trees growing nearby and estimate where their branches will grow. Don't situate your pond in a location where water runs off or it will be at a higher risk of pollution. Make sure you have a waterproof ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet outside your home to power your pump. It should be about 10 ft (3.0 m) from the pond. Squeeze a handful of soil into a ball, throw it into the air, and catch it. If it breaks apart, the soil is not suitable. If it stays together, dig a hole to your waist and fill it to the top with water in the morning. In the evening, top the hole off with water and cover it with a board. If most of the water remains the next day, the soil is suitable for a pond.  If you only have space in a location that isn't suitable for ponds, cover the hole with a layer of plastic sheeting, sand, or concrete. This will prevent the pond's water from being absorbed into the soil. Purchase plastic sheeting, sand, and concrete from home hardware stores.

What is a summary?
Provide 1 sq ft (0.093 m2) of space for each 1 in (2.5 cm) of fish. Check local, state, or federal requirements for fishing ponds. Select a pond location exposed to equal amounts of sunlight and shade. Check that the location's soil has low water retention.