Nice spot to begin that deck that you were not planning on!!! That is what I am planning on....here in NY they require 48" from the top rail to grade for a distance of 48" from the base. I had the installer dig out 48" larger than the pool, just so I can get inspected before I build a deck. Many little projects have popped up since the pool. He had to dig 16" on the half of the pool closest to the house...he left me with a large pile of topsoil....so if any of you are interested.....please help yourself!!!