Some local governments have no restrictions on pond construction. However, most require fences around the yard of any pond 18 inches or greater in depth. Many municipalities require recirculating pumps and filtration systems. If garden hoses are used to fill the ponds, they must be equipped with an antisiphon device. Some city and county governments require that all ponds be inspected after construction for these and other sanitation issues.
Some municipalities require building permits.
Check with dealers in your area carrying water garden construction supplies about specifics for your area or call the local authorities if you are unsure. Construction material selection Choice of materials should take into account the cost, life expectancy of the material, installation requirements, availability in your area, and how these materials may blend with the existing materials in your landscape. The liner is generally the most important and most expensive component of the water garden. Plants Plant selection for the pond is, of course, one of the major design considerations. However, as stated earlier, most ponds are retrofitted to an existing landscape, so for best results, the plant material chosen for the pond must be in concert with existing plants in the landscape.